George Wendt 's "Cheers" co-stars and Hollywood celebrities are sharing heartfelt tributes following his death at age 76. Wendt's family confirmed the news Tuesday morning, announcing that the actor died peacefully in his sleep at home, according to a statement shared by his representative with ABC News.

Jeff Ross was among the first to pay tribute to Wendt — who was best known for playing Norm Peterson on Cheers, and appeared in every episode from its 1982 premiere to its finale in 1993 — following the news of his death.

"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," Ratzenberger said.