George Wendt's 1-Word Audition For Cheers Was So Norm

George Wendt as Norm Peterson in CheersCheers star George Wendt died on Tuesday, but left behind a great story about how he got cast as lovable barfly Norm.In a 2024 podcast interview with castmates Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson, Wendt said his agent called him about an audition for “this Cheers”, sparking a sitcom-worthy exchange.The agent reminded Wendt he wasn’t available because of another commitment (the ill-fated Making The Grade), but said the producers “want you to come in anyway”. “It’s really small, though,” they then warned.This is how the rest of the conversation went, according to Wendt.“How small?” he asked.“Well, it’s really just one line,” the agent replied.“Hmm. OK.”“Actually, you know, it’s one word.”“Oh really?”“You know, come to think of it, it’s one syllable.”“But what’s the syllable?”“Beer.”Producers, however, nixed the bit, which involved an exchange with Shelley Long’s character, Diane Chambers. They had Wendt read for a character called George, who then morphed into Norm.Norm, of course, became known for his unquenchable thirst for brew in the show’s run from 1982 to 1993.Fast-forward to 11:20 for Wendt’s casting anecdote:MORE TV NEWS:The Friends Spinoff You Forgot Existed Is Now Streaming – And It's Kind Of GoodSarah Jessica Parker Gets Candid About Why She Almost Quit Sex And The City Before It Even AiredFrasier Star David Hyde Pierce Breaks Silence On Reboot And Why He Didn't Return

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