Dennis Haskins, famous for his role as principal Richard Belding on the popular sitcom “Saved by the Bell,” has passed away at the age of 75, as confirmed by his agent Jay Schachter in a statement to CBC News. Describing it as a tragic loss, Schachter expressed deep affection for Haskins, emphasizing his devotion to his fans and the lasting friendship they shared for over two decades.
Haskins gained fame portraying the lovable and just principal of Bayside High, known for his iconic catchphrase, “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” Originally hailing from Chattanooga, Tennessee, he initially portrayed Mr. Belding on Disney Channel’s “Good Morning, Miss Bliss,” which later evolved into “Saved by the Bell” on NBC, running from 1989 to 1993.
Continuing his role in spin-offs like “Saved by the Bell: The New Class” and a special appearance on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in 2015 alongside former cast members, Haskins left a lasting impact on his colleagues. Co-stars like Mario Lopez, Elizabeth Berkley, Tiffani Thiessen, and Mark-Paul Gosselaar have taken to social media to express their grief and share fond memories of working with him.
Lopez, who played A.C. Slater on the show, posted a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, reminiscing about their shared experiences and the genuine friendship they had. Similarly, Thiessen, known for her role as Kelly Kapowski, reflected on Haskins’ influential presence during her formative years, praising his kindness and mentorship.
Lark Voorhies, who portrayed Lisa Turtle alongside Haskins, described their nearly 40-year friendship as a profound blessing, highlighting his enduring kindness and warmth. She expressed deep sorrow over his passing, emphasizing the deep connection they shared throughout their careers.
Haskins’ acting journey began in 1979 with a guest appearance on “The Dukes of Hazzard,” leading to a successful television and film career spanning several decades. His talent graced popular shows like “Mad Men,” “Hot in Cleveland,” and “New Girl,” along with a memorable role in Seth MacFarlane’s film “A Million Ways to Die in the West.”
