Dennis Haskins, the actor beloved by generations of television viewers for his role as Principal Richard Belding on the classic teen sitcom Saved by the Bell, has died at the age of 75.
Haskins’ death was confirmed by his longtime agent and friend, Jay Schachter, who described the actor as a wonderful person who deeply loved his fans. Haskins died on September 28, 2026. His cause of death has not been publicly revealed.
“Mr. Belding” became one of Haskins’ most recognizable characters after Saved by the Bell premiered on NBC in 1989. As the principal of Bayside High School, Belding frequently found himself trying to keep Zack Morris, Kelly Kapowski, A.C. Slater, Jessie Spano, Lisa Turtle and Samuel “Screech” Powers out of trouble.
His signature reaction — “Hey, hey, hey, what is going on here?” — became one of the show’s most memorable catchphrases and remains closely associated with the character decades later.
From ‘Good Morning, Miss Bliss’ to ‘Saved by the Bell’
Haskins first portrayed the character in Good Morning, Miss Bliss, which originally aired on the Disney Channel. When the series was reworked into Saved by the Bell, his character became Principal Richard Belding, and Haskins continued in the role throughout the original series.
Unlike many of the show’s younger stars, Haskins remained the familiar adult presence at Bayside High as the students navigated friendships, relationships, school competitions and the challenges of growing up.
He later reprised the role in Saved by the Bell: The College Years and Saved by the Bell: The New Class, extending his connection to the franchise through multiple generations of viewers.
A Career Beyond Bayside High
Although Principal Belding became his signature role, Haskins’ acting career extended well beyond Saved by the Bell. He appeared in numerous television shows and films throughout his career, including guest appearances and character roles that showcased his range outside of the beloved sitcom.
Haskins also remained connected to his fans long after the original series ended. His longtime agent recalled that he always made time for the people who supported his work.
“He loved, I mean absolutely LOVED his fans,” Schachter told TMZ, adding that Haskins “always had time for them.”
For millions who grew up watching Saved by the Bell, however, Dennis Haskins will forever be remembered as Mr. Belding — the stern but often caring principal who became an unforgettable part of 1990s television.
His death marks the loss of an actor whose portrayal of one fictional high school principal became a lasting piece of pop-culture history.
The Y’all Know What family extends heartfelt condolences to Dennis Haskins’ family, friends, colleagues and the countless fans who grew up watching him.
May he rest in heavenly peace.
