Beloved actor Dustin Diamond passed away Monday morning. Diamond played the role of Samuel “Screech” Powers on the popular series, ‘Saved by the Bell’. The actor was only 44 years old after losing his life to stage four cancer.
According to the actor’s Facebook page, he was hospitalized for medical testing which led to his unfortunate cancer diagnosis. He was diagnosed with small-cell carcinoma, a type of malignant cancer mainly affecting the lung area. Diamond had been going through chemotherapy throughout the month of January. His girlfriend was by his side at the hospital.
Diamond was on the original “Saved by the Bell” series from 1983 through 1991, as well as Saved by the Bell: New Class and spin-off like the College Years, Las Vegas Wedding, and the New Class.
He played the role of Samuel Powers for almost thirteen years. Fellow Saved By the Bell costar Mario Lopez was among one of many celebrities who tweeted about their mourning for Diamond and his family. Tiffani Thiessen (played Jessie) and Mark-Paul Gosselaar (play Zach) sent their condolences on social media too.
Diamond will be missed by many.
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… pic.twitter.com/BnxY9XgN5g
— Mario Lopez (@mariolopezviva) February 1, 2021
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.
— Mark-Paul Gosselaar (@MPG) February 1, 2021
