A representative for Wendt, publicist Melissa Nathan, confirmed the actor's death to USA TODAY on May 20, adding that he died peacefully in his sleep at his home "early Tuesday morning." "George was a doting family man,

George Wendt 's "Cheers" co-stars and Hollywood celebrities are sharing heartfelt tributes following his death at age 76. Wendt's family confirmed the news Tuesday morning, announcing that the actor died peacefully in his sleep at home, according to a statement shared by his representative with ABC News.

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