George Wendt, who starred in the US sitcom Cheers, has died at the age of 76.

The American actor played Norm Peterson in the hit 1980s television programme, set in a bar in Boston, Massachusetts.

Wendt earned six consecutive Emmy nominations for his role on the show.

“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” his publicist said in a statement.

“He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”

Wendt shot to fame on Cheers, which ran for 275 episodes across 11 series from 1982 to 1993 and starred Ted Danson as bar owner Sam Malone.