'Cheers' co-stars pay tribute to George Wendt following his death at 76

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George Wendt's Cheers co-stars are sharing heartfelt tributes following his death at age 76.

Wendt was best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on the classic sitcom Cheers, which earned him six Emmy nominations.

Calling Wendt "my friend," Cheers co-star John Ratzenberger said in a statement to ABC News, "For eleven years on 'Cheers,' we shared a stage, a lot of laughs, and a front-row seat to one of television's most beloved friendships. George brought Norm to life with a subtle brilliance — the kind that made it look easy. That was his gift."

Ted Danson, who played Sam Malone on Cheers, also shared a moving tribute in his statement to ABC News.

Another Cheers co-star, Rhea Perlman, told ABC News in a statement that Wendt "was the sweetest, kindest man I ever met."