---
title: "Peter Van Norden, Actor from 'Police Academy' and 'Naked Gun', Dies at 75"
description: "Actor Peter Van Norden, known for his roles in 'Police Academy' and 'Naked Gun', has died. The artist passed away at the age of 75 in Southern California after a battle with illness. His final stage performance in Los Angeles received high praise from critics. 🎬🕯️"
date: 2026-07-12T15:34:00.000Z
lang: en
url: https://xab.info/en/posts/peter-van-norden-actor-police-academy-and-naked-gun-dies-at-75
tags: []
publisher: "XAB.info"
---

# Peter Van Norden, Actor from 'Police Academy' and 'Naked Gun', Dies at 75

![Peter Van Norden as the police officer from 'Police Academy' and in a scene from 'The Naked Gun' — actor who passed away at age 75](https://xab.info/media/2026/07/12/umer-piter-van-norden-akter-policeiskoi-akademii-i-gologo-pistoleta/umer-piter-van-norden-akter-policeiskoi-akademii-i-gologo-pistoleta-1.webp)

The world of cinema and theater has suffered a sad loss: American actor Peter Van Norden has passed away at the age of 75. The artist, remembered by audiences for his bright comedic roles in cult films, died on Thursday morning at a hospital in Southern California.

### Peaceful passing after a battle with illness

His wife, Wendy, announced his death. According to her, the actor passed away peacefully after a prolonged struggle with several illnesses. Wendy was by his side in his final moments, supporting her husband. The family has not disclosed specific diagnoses, preferring to keep the details private.

### From New York to Hollywood

Peter Van Norden was born on December 16, 1950, in New York. His professional path in cinema began in 1979 with his debut in the comedy 'Squeeze Play'. In the following years, the actor worked actively in both film and television, demonstrating a wide range of abilities.

His filmography includes projects such as 'Blood Feud', the miniseries 'The Stand', and 'Route 66', where he starred alongside Willem Dafoe. However, it was his comedic characters that brought him the greatest popularity.

### Cult roles and the theater stage

Audiences around the world know Van Norden for his role as Officer Winnie Schultman in the second installment of the legendary 'Police Academy' franchise. He is also remembered for his portrayal of the eccentric former White House Chief of Staff John Sununu in the sequel to the cult comedy 'Naked Gun 2½: The Smell of Fear'.

In addition to filming, the actor dedicated many years to theater work. He performed on Broadway and in regional theaters across the United States. His last work in his career was the play 'Corktown '39', shown in Los Angeles last year. Van Norden's performance in this production received positive reviews from local theater critics.