Dennis Haskins, the actor known for playing Principal Richard Belding on Saved by the Bell for more than a decade, has died at the age of 75. His agent Jay Schachter announced the news to the media on Tuesday.
Agent pays tribute
Schachter described the loss as tragic, saying: “It’s a tragic loss. Everyone loved Mr. Belding, and those of us who got to know Dennis loved him even more.”
He added: “He was a great person, and he loved, I mean absolutely loved his fans. He always had time for them, no matter what. He was my client and dear friend for over 20 years, and I will miss him terribly.”
Career highlights
Details about the cause of Haskins' death have not been revealed. The American actor, born in 1950, began his career on The Dukes of Hazzard before finding success as Mr Belding on Saved by the Bell.
Haskins auditioned for the sitcom seven times before landing the role. He became known for the catchphrase “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” and was a staple of the series, which ran from 1989 to 1993.
Later roles
He continued the role in the spinoff Saved by the Bell: The New Class for another seven years. More than a decade later, Haskins reappeared as Mr Belding for a final appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
He also appeared in other shows including New Girl, Mad Men and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
