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

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.