George Wendt’s Cause of Death Revealed

Authorities have released the cause of death for beloved actor George Wendt.

According to a death certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, obtained by TMZ, the “Cheers” star died from cardiac arrest with other underlying causes.

Those include congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure. Wendt also suffered from end-stage renal disease, also known as kidney failure.

The 76-year-old actor was also noted to have high cholesterol, which elevated his risk of heart attack or stroke.

George Wendt Created Iconic Character of ‘Norm’

Wendt, who passed away May 20 and was cremated May 28, was best known for creating the iconic character of “Norm Peterson” on the NBC sitcom “Cheers.”

Every single episode of the show from its debut in 1982 to its finale in 1993 featured Wendt walking into the bar to shouts of “NORM” from bartenders and patrons.

“Cheers” costars paid tribute to the actor after his death.

Ted Danson told PEOPLE in a statement he’s “devastated to hear that Georgie is no longer with us.”

“I am sending all my love to Bernadette and the children,” Danson said. “It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie.”

John Ratzenberger played Norm’s buddy and barstool mate Cliff Clavin. He told PEOPLE that he was “heartbroken to hear about the passing of my friend George Wendt.”

“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,” he wrote. “George brought Norm to life with a subtle brilliance — the kind that made it look easy. That was his gift.”

“He was a true craftsman — humble, hilarious, and full of heart,” he continued. “What you saw on screen was exactly who he was off screen with impeccable comedic timing and a deep loyalty to those he loved. I’ll miss our conversations and the quiet moments of friendship that meant the most.”

George Wendt’s Publicist Asks for Privacy for Family

George Wendt is survived by his wife Bernadette Birkett, and their three children, Hilary, Joe, and Daniel.

A statement from his publicist said, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever,” the statement continued. “The family has requested privacy during this time.”