Jason Sudeikis shared a heartfelt memory of his uncle George Wendt years before the 'Cheers' star died "peacefully in his sleep" at age 76 on May 20.

It was almost game over for Jason Sudeikis on Laurel Canyon. Years before his uncle George Wendt’s death at age 76 on Tuesday, the actor, 49, recalled a childhood memory that involved a fast, new BMW — and the narrow roads of Los Angeles.

“George Wendt was as lovable as the character he played on Cheers. It was the perfect marriage of actor and character. George was a gentleman and a gentle man. Norm was America’s favorite barfly, and as the theme song said, everybody knew his name. And shouted it when he walked through the door. We were blessed to have him in our lives.

George Wendt, the actor known for playing Norm in the Boston-based sitcom "Cheers," was mourned at the Beacon Hill bar where patrons are paying their respects. In the place where everyone knows your name,

Cheers' is still one of the most beloved comedies in TV history. In light of George Wendt’s death, here’s a look back at the sitcom’s bartenders and barflies, then and now.

George Wendt, who portrayed the beloved 'Norm" on the hit NBC sitcom Cheers, died Tuesday. Fans flocked to the Boston bar that inspired the '80s TV show.

George Wendt, best know for his role as Norm Peterson in "Cheers" has died at 76. He died at his home Tuesday, and a cause of death has not yet been revealed.