Dennis Haskins, Mr. Belding from Saved by the Bell, Dies at 75

Dennis Haskins, the actor who brought Principal Richard Belding to life on Saved by the Bell, has died at 75. His spokesperson confirmed the news on Monday, September 28, calling it a tragic loss and adding that everyone loved Mr. Belding, but those who knew Dennis loved him even more.

Haskins first played the role on Good Morning, Miss Bliss in 1988 and was one of the few actors carried over when NBC revamped the show into Saved by the Bell. He stayed in the principal’s office from 1989 to 1993, then continued through The New Class until 2000, with additional appearances in The College Years and the Wedding in Las Vegas TV movie.

For a generation of viewers, Mr. Belding was the rare TV authority figure who was never the enemy. He was the grown-up who cared, and Haskins played him with real warmth. That same warmth showed up off screen, where he was known for his devotion to fans at conventions and events.

What’s your favorite Mr. Belding memory? Drop it in the comments and let’s celebrate him together.