Dennis Haskins, renowned for his role as principal Richard Belding in the popular sitcom “Saved by the Bell,” has passed away at the age of 75, confirmed by his agent Jay Schachter. Described as a tragic loss, Schachter expressed deep admiration for Haskins, highlighting his genuine love for his fans and the lasting friendship they shared over two decades.
Haskins gained fame for portraying the beloved and just principal at Bayside High, fondly remembered for his iconic catchphrase, “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” Originally appearing as Mr. Belding on Disney Channel’s “Good Morning, Miss Bliss,” the character transitioned to the NBC series “Saved by the Bell,” airing from 1989 to 1993.
Beyond his role as Mr. Belding, Haskins reprised the character in subsequent series such as “Saved by the Bell: The New Class,” and in a memorable sketch on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in 2015 with former co-stars. His fellow cast members, including Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Elizabeth Berkley, Mario Lopez, and Tiffani Thiessen, have expressed their love and shared heartfelt tributes on social media platforms.
Throughout his nearly four-decade career, Haskins appeared in a wide range of television shows and films, including “Mad Men,” “Hot in Cleveland,” “New Girl,” and Seth MacFarlane’s movie “A Million Ways to Die in the West.” Lark Voorhies, who starred alongside Haskins in “Saved by the Bell,” described their enduring friendship as a significant blessing, emphasizing his kind and gentle nature that touched many lives.
Haskins’ legacy extends beyond his role as Mr. Belding, leaving a lasting impact on the entertainment industry with his versatile acting talent and memorable performances.