Beloved actor Dennis Haskins, famous for his role as principal Richard Belding on the popular TV show “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. Schachter expressed deep sorrow over the loss, highlighting Haskins’ warm personality and dedication to his fans.
Haskins gained widespread recognition for portraying the caring and iconic principal of Bayside High School, known for his memorable catchphrase, “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” Originating his role in the series “Good Morning, Miss Bliss,” later transformed into “Saved by the Bell,” Haskins endeared himself to audiences from 1989 to 1993.
His enduring connection to the character led him to reprise the role in subsequent spin-offs like “Saved by the Bell: The New Class” and in a special sketch on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” alongside former castmates. Colleagues from the show, including Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Elizabeth Berkley, Mario Lopez, and Tiffani Thiessen, have expressed their grief on social media, recalling Haskins’ influence on their lives and the lasting memories shared.
Haskins, whose acting career spanned several decades, made his screen debut in 1979 and went on to feature in various popular TV series and films such as “Mad Men,” “Hot in Cleveland,” “New Girl,” and Seth MacFarlane’s “A Million Ways to Die in the West.” His legacy as Mr. Belding and contributions to the entertainment industry will be fondly remembered by fans and colleagues alike.