Dennis Haskins has sadly passed away at the age of 75.
The actor was best known for playing Principal Richard Belding on the beloved series Saved by the Bell, a role that he reprised on multiple spinoff shows. The character was known for the saying, “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?”
Haskins‘ death was confirmed by his agent, though a cause is not known as of this time. It has been reported that the actor suffered from Parkinson’s disease.
Statement from Dennis Haskins’ agent
Jay Schachter, who was the actor’s agent, told TMZ, “It’s a tragic loss. Everyone loved Mr. Belding and those of us who got to know Dennis, loved him even more. 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,” he added.
The news was broken after a karaoke bar posted a tribute to Dennis.
Dimples Karaoke, an establishment that Haskins frequented in Tennessee, broke the news in a tribute post.
Dennis was a staple at Dimples. A lot of people thought he owned it, but he didn’t. He just loved the place and its people. He enjoyed singing for people, meeting them, and taking selfies with his fans. Dimples closed down about 11 years ago, and people still associate him with his beloved “second home.” He was known to most as Mr. Belding from Saved by the Bell, but to us, he was much more than that.
About eight years ago, he became ill. He had been silent about his fight with Parkinson’s, among other health concerns, because he did not want the attention. He did not want to have to tell people. He would say, “What do I even say?” So I respected his wishes and stayed quiet, and I helped him through his journey into the next chapter of his life.
Late last night, that journey ended for him. He is now at peace and is probably entertaining the people in the sky. Just know that if you tried to reach out to him in the last few years, I did read your messages to him, and you were heard.
After I said my final goodbyes to him last night, I was across the hall signing some paperwork. I looked up and saw that the room he had been in was a gift from the Mario Lopez Golf Classic, and somehow, that made me feel a little better.
What a cool and amazing life he had. Rest in peace, Dennis. You were very much loved and will never be forgotten.
We’re sending our thoughts and condolences to his loved ones during this difficult time.
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