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Dennis Haskins, the actor best known to generations of television viewers as Principal Richard Belding on Saved by the Bell, has died at the age of 75, with new details emerging about health struggles he largely kept away from the public. Haskins died on Sunday night at an assisted-living facility in Burbank, California, according to his longtime friend and caretaker Kimberly Snow. His agent, Jay Schachter, subsequently confirmed his death. An official cause of death has not been announced. However, a tribute shared by people associated with Dimples Karaoke Bar in Burbank revealed that Haskins had been privately living with Parkinson’s disease and other health problems after becoming ill approximately eight years ago. According to the tribute, Haskins chose not to publicly discuss his Parkinson’s diagnosis because he did not want the attention surrounding his health. The disclosure provides new context surrounding the actor’s reduced public presence during his later years, although Parkinson’s disease has not been officially identified as the cause of his death. Haskins became a familiar face to millions through his portrayal of Richard Belding, the principal responsible for keeping order at the fictional Bayside High School. He first played Belding in Good Morning, Miss Bliss in 1988 before continuing in the role when the concept developed into Saved by the Bell. The series followed Zack Morris and his group of friends through their teenage years and became one of the most recognisable American youth sitcoms of its era. Haskins’ frequently exasperated but caring principal became an important part of the programme, particularly through his interactions with Zack and the other students. His association with the franchise continued long after the original series. Haskins reprised Belding in Saved by the Bell: The New Class and also appeared in other productions connected to the franchise, making the character the defining role of his career. Away from Bayside High, Haskins built a lengthy acting résumé that included appearances in The Dukes of Hazzard, Magnum, P.I., Mad Men, Hot in Cleveland, New Girl and the film A Million Ways to Die in the West. He was also remembered for the relationship he maintained with fans. Dimples Karaoke Bar described Haskins as a longtime regular who enjoyed singing, meeting people and taking photographs with those who recognised him. His connection to the establishment became so strong that some patrons reportedly believed he owned it. Even as his health deteriorated, messages sent by fans were reportedly read to him. Haskins’ agent remembered him as someone who consistently made time for the people who followed his career and described his death as a significant personal loss. For viewers who grew up watching Saved by the Bell, Haskins remains closely identified with the principal who attempted to keep Bayside High’s students under control while ultimately caring deeply about them. His death closes another chapter in the history of one of television’s most recognisable school sitcoms, while the new details surrounding his final years reveal a health struggle Haskins largely chose to face privately.
