Saved By The Bell star Dustin Diamond dies aged 44
His representative says he died just weeks after being hospitalised
Last updated 1st Feb 2021
Dustin Diamond, star of Saved By The Bell has died aged 44 according to his representative.
The actor had only been diagnosed with cancer three weeks ago
Diamond, who played Samuel “Screech” Powers on the popular comedy, was taken to hospital in Florida last month after falling ill.
His death was announced on Monday by Roger Paul, his representative, who said the cause of death was carcinoma.
He said in a statement: “He was diagnosed with this brutal, relentless form of malignant cancer only three weeks ago. In that time, it managed to spread rapidly throughout his system; the only mercy it exhibited was its sharp and swift execution. Dustin did not suffer. He did not have to lie submerged in pain. For that, we are grateful.”
He continued, "Dustin Diamond was a character in and of himself: an unpredictable spitfire who always left us shocked, but never left us bored.
"We are thankful he trusted us enough to share his genuine, authentic self with our team.
"We wish you knew him in the way that we did.
"We please ask that you give room for privacy to our team and Mr. Diamond’s family during this tragic time, as we grieve and remember the memories spent together.
"This loss is as much stinging as it is sudden."
Tributes from Saved By The Bell cast
Mark-Paul Gosselaar played Zack Morris on Saved By The Bell. In his tribute to Diamond, he described the actor as “a true comedic genius”.
He said: “Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dustin Diamond, a true comedic genius. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. Looking back at our time working together, I will miss those raw, brilliant sparks that only he was able to produce. A pie in your face, my comrade.”
Tiffani Thiessen played Kelly Kapowski in the 1990s comedy.
She said: “I am deeply saddened by I the news of my old co-star @realdustindiamond passing. Life is extremely fragile and it’s something we should never take for granted. God speed Dustin.”
Mario Lopez, Diamond’s Saved By The Bell co-star, has paid tribute.
Alongside a picture of the pair together, Lopez, who played AC Slater, said: “Dustin, you will be missed my man. The fragility of this life is something never to be taken for granted. Prayers for your family will continue on…”