Bernadette Birkett is an American actress born on July 8, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois. She is best known for her work in television and film, often appearing in comedic roles. One of her notable contributions was voicing Vera Peterson, the unseen wife of Norm Peterson, played by her husband George Wendt, on the popular sitcom Cheers. Throughout her career, she appeared in TV shows like It’s Garry Shandling’s Show, Family Ties, and The Twilight Zone, as well as movies including Mr. Mom (1983), St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), and Heartbreakers (2001).
Birkett met George Wendt in 1974 while both were performing with Chicago’s Second City comedy troupe. The couple married on July 8, 1978, and were together for nearly 47 years until Wendt’s recent passing in May 2025. They had three children together: Hilary, Joe, and Daniel. Birkett also has two older children, Joshua and Andrew, from a previous relationship. Their family life was a significant part of her personal story alongside her career.
Beyond her marriage and family, Bernadette Birkett is the eldest of ten siblings. Her brother Joe Birkett served as an Illinois Appellate Court Justice, showing that public service and achievement run in her family. Despite her more private personal life, she maintained a steady presence in acting over several decades.
In recent years, Birkett continued to work in television, including an appearance in the final season of Arrested Development (2018–2019). Her career reflects a versatile range of roles across both film and television, often bringing a comedic touch that complements her husband’s legacy in comedy.
The couple’s life together ended with George Wendt’s death in May 2025 at age 76. Bernadette Birkett remains remembered for her long-standing partnership with Wendt, as well as her own contributions to the entertainment industry over the years.
Early Life and Age
Bernadette Birkett was born on July 8, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, making her 78 years old as of 2025. She is the eldest of ten siblings, a fact that played a significant role in shaping her character and resilience from an early age.
Her family background is notable, with her brother Joe Birkett serving as a former Illinois Appellate Court Justice. This detail reflects a family deeply rooted in both public service and the arts. Despite her ties to the judicial world through her brother, Bernadette chose a path that led her to the creative and unpredictable realm of acting.
Education
Details on Bernadette Birkett’s formal education are less documented in public records, but it is well known that she honed her acting skills through involvement with Chicago’s renowned Second City comedy troupe.
Career
Early Career and Breakthrough
Bernadette Birkett began her career in the early 1970s, initially performing in theatrical productions and comedy sketches that showcased her comedic talent. Her work with Second City allowed her to build a strong foundation in improvisational comedy, which translated well into television roles.
Her television breakthrough came with guest appearances on popular series, including Family Ties, The Twilight Zone, and It’s Garry Shandling’s Show. These roles helped her gain visibility and establish her as a reliable character actress, often cast in comedic or quirky supporting roles.
Television and Voice Work
One of Bernadette Birkett’s most recognizable contributions to television was her voice role as Vera Peterson, the unseen wife of Norm Peterson on Cheers. This role, although never physically seen on screen, was crucial to the dynamic of the show and added depth to George Wendt’s character. Her voice work contributed to the humor and charm that made Cheers a beloved series for over a decade.
In addition to Cheers, Birkett appeared in various other television projects throughout her career, maintaining a consistent presence in both guest and recurring roles. Her ability to adapt to different comedic styles made her a valuable asset on sets.
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Film Roles
Bernadette Birkett’s film career includes several notable movies spanning the 1980s and beyond. Some of her significant film credits include Mr. Mom (1983), where she played supporting roles that complemented the film’s comedic storyline, and St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), a popular coming-of-age drama. She also appeared in Heartbreakers (2001), demonstrating her continued involvement in the film industry well into the new millennium.
Net Worth
Bernadette Birkett’s career, spanning several decades of television and film work, has contributed to a respectable net worth. While exact figures vary across sources, estimates place her net worth in the range of $2 million to $4 million as of 2025. This wealth primarily stems from her consistent roles in TV series, voice acting, and films, as well as her long-standing presence in the entertainment industry.
Personal Life
Marriage and Husband
Bernadette Birkett’s personal life is closely intertwined with her professional life, primarily through her marriage to George Wendt. The couple met in 1974 while working together at Chicago’s famed Second City comedy troupe. Their shared passion for comedy and acting laid the foundation for a strong relationship both onstage and off. They married on July 8, 1978, on Birkett’s birthday, marking the beginning of a nearly 47-year-long marriage.
George Wendt became widely known for his role as Norm Peterson on the hit sitcom Cheers, and Birkett often supported him behind the scenes while maintaining her own career. Their marriage was admired for its longevity in an industry where relationships often face intense pressure. They were considered a classic Hollywood couple, blending talent, humor, and mutual support.
Children
Together, Bernadette Birkett and George Wendt had three children: Hilary (born 1985), Joe (born 1987), and Daniel (born 1990). Birkett also has two older children, Joshua and Andrew, from a previous relationship, making her a mother to five in total.
Husband’s Death
Tragically, George Wendt passed away on May 20, 2025, at the age of 76. His death marked the end of an era for fans of Cheers and the comedy community. Bernadette Birkett, who had been married to him for nearly 47 years, was deeply affected by the loss.
Conclusion
Bernadette Birkett’s journey in the entertainment industry reflects a career marked by steady dedication, versatility, and heartfelt performances. From her early days with Chicago’s Second City troupe to memorable voice roles and appearances on iconic TV shows and films, she has maintained a respected presence in Hollywood. Her long marriage to George Wendt, a beloved television figure, adds a deeply personal and inspiring dimension to her story, showcasing a partnership that endured nearly five decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Bernadette Birkett?
Bernadette Birkett is an American actress known for her television and film roles, especially for voicing Vera Peterson on the sitcom Cheers. She is also known as the wife of actor George Wendt.
How old is Bernadette Birkett?
She was born on July 8, 1946, which makes her 78 years old in 2025.
Who was Bernadette Birkett married to?
She was married to George Wendt, famous for his role as Norm Peterson on Cheers. They were married for nearly 47 years until his death in 2025.
How many children does Bernadette Birkett have?
She has five children in total—three with George Wendt and two from a previous relationship.
What are some notable TV shows Bernadette Birkett appeared in?
She appeared in Cheers (voice role), Family Ties, It’s Garry Shandling’s Show, The Twilight Zone, and Arrested Development among others.
What films has Bernadette Birkett acted in?
Her film credits include Mr. Mom (1983), St. Elmo’s Fire (1985), and Heartbreakers (2001).
When did George Wendt pass away?
George Wendt passed away on May 20, 2025, at the age of 76.
