Jason Sudeikis recently shared a heartfelt tribute to his late uncle, George Wendt, fondly known to the world as Norm from the iconic sitcom "Cheers." Speaking at the Big Slick Celebrity Weekend in Kansas City, the "Ted Lasso" star reflected on Wendt's profound impact on his life and career.
Sudeikis, 49, emphasized that Wendt, who passed away peacefully on May 20 at the age of 76, exceeded all expectations of a hero. Rejecting the cautionary adage "Don't meet your heroes," Sudeikis described Wendt as embodying the same warmth, kindness, and fun that audiences loved about his on-screen characters.
Beyond Wendt's celebrated acting career, Sudeikis highlighted his uncle's pivotal role in shaping his own path. Wendt, a Midwest native, showed Sudeikis that acting could be a viable career, inspiring him to pursue his passion with dedication and care.
Furthermore, Sudeikis praised Wendt's unwavering connection to his family and Midwestern roots. Despite his fame, Wendt remained grounded, maintaining strong ties to his native Chicago and spending time in Kansas City, where he attended college. Sudeikis concluded his tribute with a simple yet powerful sentiment: "We miss him greatly, and I love him dearly."