Summary of "George Wendt (Re-Release)" Episode
Podcast Title: Where Everybody Knows Your Name with Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson (sometimes)
Episode Title: George Wendt (Re-Release)
Release Date: April 9, 2025
Introduction and Reconnection
The episode kicks off with Ted Danson welcoming listeners back to the podcast, announcing a series of nostalgic re-releases before returning to new interviews. The first re-release features George Wendt, reminiscing about their initial recording session for Cheers. Ted humorously notes their shared nervousness during that first conversation.
Ted Danson [00:26]: "We were both so nervous. Anyway, we talked about how George got cast as Norm Peterson and the infamous time we all played hooky."
Casting George Wendt as Norm Peterson
George Wendt shares intriguing details about his casting process. Initially offered a minor role, he eventually secured the iconic character of Norm Peterson after other possibilities fell through.
George Wendt [11:49]: "The role was George. And so I read it and then they decided they were gonna try to make it work out where I could do both shows. And then the other show got canceled."
Woody Harrelson and Ted Danson discuss the behind-the-scenes decisions that led to George's enduring role, highlighting the meticulous casting and chemistry considerations by the producers.
George Wendt [14:09]: "Actually the day that we did not get picked up for Making the Grade, the offer came in for Cheers. They knew because it was Paramount."
Life at Second City and Early Career Struggles
George delves into his early days at Second City, detailing his challenges with improvisation and his journey from sweeping stages to performing.
George Wendt [25:20]: "I was determined not to do something I hated... I thought, wow, if I could do that, I bet I wouldn't hate that."
He humorously recounts an encounter with Del Close, the notorious improvisational coach, and the chaotic moments that shaped his comedic style.
George Wendt [30:32]: "And he was a notorious substance abuser. Notorious."
Memorable On-Set Stories and Pranks
The trio shares numerous anecdotes from their time on Cheers, including elaborate pranks and memorable on-set moments. Ted Danson reminisces about getting pantsed by George, leading to laughter that resurfaces years later.
George Wendt [43:37]: "She goes up to Woody, 'What's happening?'... and he says, 'Don't rip the tape.'"
Woody Harrelson recounts the infamous shower prank captured by a Polaroid, which later became part of a rap video, showcasing the playful dynamics among the cast.
Ted Danson [43:13]: "Kirsty took a Polaroid... confirming your leading man status."
The Hooky Boat Ride Incident
One of the standout stories is the recounting of a day the cast decided to play hooky and take a boat ride. Ted describes his intense experience under the influence of mushrooms amidst turbulent waves, with Woody helping him stay calm.
Ted Danson [44:43]: "I ate an extraordinary amount of mushrooms... And you looked skeletal. That was my only kind of visual buzz from mushrooms."
The incident underscores the camaraderie and sometimes reckless adventures of the Cheers family.
Tribute to Late Cast Members
The discussion turns poignant as they remember Nick Colesando, the actor who played the bartender with a heart condition. They share heartfelt memories and rituals the cast adopted to honor his legacy after his passing.
George Wendt [55:42]: "It's almost as if T Bone is still here with us."
A touching moment is shared about how they insisted on keeping a sepia photograph of Nick in the bar, ensuring his memory remained part of the show's fabric.
Favorite Bits and Behind-the-Scenes Humor
George shares his favorite Cheers bits, particularly those initiated by Woody, highlighting their harmonious comedic collaboration.
George Wendt [50:28]: "What's my favorite show? Jumping jerks... We can't tell them back at the bar. We gotta come up with a story."
They laugh over the challenges of maintaining comedic freshness over the show's long run, including improvisational gambits and unexpected laughs during filming.
George Wendt [53:30]: "Jimmy claims it's the only time he ever had to cut the camera on a laugh."
Conclusion and Reflections
The episode wraps up with Ted, Woody, and George expressing mutual appreciation for their enduring friendships and shared experiences on Cheers. They tease potential future episodes featuring other Cheers guests, leaving listeners eagerly anticipating more nostalgic content.
Ted Danson [57:12]: "It's a privilege for me and for Woody to share our friends with you."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- George Wendt [00:05]: "Yeah, not really. More like America caught on."
- Woody Harrelson [02:23]: "He likes to win."
- George Wendt [11:49]: "The role was George."
- Ted Danson [44:43]: "I ate an extraordinary amount of mushrooms."
- George Wendt [55:42]: "It's almost as if T Bone is still here with us."
This episode offers a heartfelt and humorous dive into the lives of beloved Cheers characters, providing fans with treasured behind-the-scenes insights and stories that highlight the strong bonds formed during the show's formative years.