Chicago Unveils Honorary George Wendt Way in Beverly

Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood unveiled “Honorary George Wendt Way” at 92nd and Bell with a sign placed in front of the actor’s childhood home, where members of his extended family still live. Hundreds of friends, neighbors, family and fellow performers — including Ald. Matt O’Shea — attended the dedication after the idea was pitched by his sister Marti Doherty, and his widow Bernadette Birkett spoke about Wendt’s humility and warmth. Wendt, who died in May at 76, got his start at The Second City and became a television icon as Norm Peterson on Cheers, appearing in all 275 episodes. Speakers and colleagues recalled his Chicago roots and comic legacy, including his memorable Saturday Night Live Bears superfan sketches. The street naming is one of several events this week honoring the late comedian and celebrating his life and contributions to Chicago’s comedy scene.