Dennis Haskins, renowned for his portrayal of principal Richard Belding in the popular TV series “Saved by the Bell,” has passed away at the age of 75, as confirmed by his agent, Jay Schachter. Expressing deep sorrow, Schachter described Haskins as a beloved figure both on and off-screen, especially cherished for his genuine affection for his fans.
Haskins gained fame for his role as the caring and approachable principal of Bayside High, known for his iconic catchphrase, “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” Originating from his appearance on Disney Channel’s “Good Morning, Miss Bliss,” this character was later featured in the revamped version of the show on NBC as “Saved by the Bell” from 1989 to 1993.
The actor reprised his role in subsequent installments like “Saved by the Bell: The New Class” and a memorable sketch on “The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon” in 2015, alongside former castmates. Fond tributes poured in from fellow actors, with Elizabeth Berkley, Mario Lopez, and Tiffani Thiessen expressing their heartfelt condolences on social media.
Lopez, who played A.C. Slater on the show, reminisced about Haskins’ enduring friendship and penchant for karaoke, emphasizing his irreplaceable presence in their shared history. Similarly, Lark Voorhies, who starred as Lisa Turtle, reflected on nearly four decades of friendship with Haskins, describing him as a constant source of kindness and loyalty.
Haskins’ career spanned various television and film projects, with notable appearances in acclaimed series such as “Mad Men,” “Hot in Cleveland,” and “New Girl,” as well as a role in Seth MacFarlane’s movie “A Million Ways to Die in the West.” His legacy as a versatile and beloved actor endures in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.