George Wendt, the actor and comedian who cut his teeth at Chicago’s improvisational comedy troupe Second City before finding fame as part of the ensemble cast of the beloved 1980s NBC sitcom

Jason Sudeikis' uncle earned Emmy nominations six years running after getting started on Second City in his hometown of Chicago.

Actor George Wendt, who once played the ever-loyal Norm on “Cheers,” died Tuesday morning at his home at the age of 76, his family confirmed in a statement through his publicist. “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” the statement said. “He will be missed forever.”