Overview
- Jason Sudeikis opened the Big Slick Celebrity Weekend in Kansas City on May 30 with a heartfelt tribute to George Wendt, praising his warmth and humor.
- He described Wendt as an “incredible influence” who demonstrated that acting could be a viable career without sacrificing family ties.
- Sudeikis recalled his uncle’s time at Rockhurst University and celebrated the enduring partnership between Wendt and his wife of nearly 50 years, Bernadette Birkett.
- The weekend event raised funds for Children’s Mercy Hospital and featured additional tributes from Rob Riggle, Eric Stonestreet and Paul Rudd.
- Wendt, best known for playing Norm Peterson on Cheers for all 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993, died peacefully at home on May 20 at age 76 and is survived by his wife and three children.