Cause of Death Revealed for ‘Saved by the Bell’ Star Dennis Haskins

Dennis Haskins, the actor best known for playing the stern but beloved Principal Richard Belding on “Saved by the Bell,” died from Parkinson’s disease, according to newly released information from his death certificate. He was 75.

Haskins died on Sept. 27 at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center in Burbank, California. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health listed Parkinson’s disease as the immediate cause of death, according to the certificate obtained by TMZ.

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, often causing symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, slowed movement, and balance problems.

His death certificate also identified several other significant health conditions, including irritable bowel syndrome, depression, hypertension, and benign prostatic hyperplasia. Those conditions were listed separately from Parkinson’s, which was identified as the immediate cause of death.

The Epoch Times reached out to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for further information but did not hear back by publication time.

“It’s a tragic loss,” his agent, Jay Schachter, said in a statement at the time of his death. “Everyone loved Mr. Belding, and those of us who got to know Dennis loved him even more.”

“He was a great person, and he loved, I mean absolutely LOVED his fans. He always had time for them, no matter what. He was my client and dear friend for over 20 years, and I will miss him terribly. I’m heartbroken.”

Best-known as Principal Richard Belding, the good-natured administrator of Bayside High School, Haskins first took on the role in “Good Morning, Miss Bliss,” which later evolved into “Saved by the Bell.”

He returned as Mr. Belding throughout the original series and reprised the character in later installments of the franchise, including “Saved by the Bell: The New Class.”

Haskins was born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, where his interest in performing began during his school years. According to a biography published by the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, he participated in his school’s drama club and helped establish a community theater group, experiences that laid the groundwork for his eventual career in entertainment.

Before establishing himself as a television performer, Haskins worked in the music industry as a manager, agent, and concert promoter. His clients included musicians such as Tom Jones and Gregg Allman.

Haskins later turned to acting, building a resume through guest appearances on a number of popular television shows. During the 1980s, he appeared in episodes of “The Twilight Zone” and “Magnum, P.I.” before landing his role on “Saved by the Bell.”

Since his death, a wave of tributes have continued to pour in from fans, former colleagues and actors alike, many remembering Haskins not only for his role as Mr. Belding, but also for the warmth and connection he shared with audiences.

“Knowing Dennis Haskins for almost 40 years has been one of the truest blessings of my life, which makes losing him hurt so deeply,” wrote Lark Voorhies, who played Lisa Turtle on the show.

“Mr. Belding couldn’t have been anyone else,” added Elizabeth Berkley, who played Jessie Spano on the series. “So much of what made him so loved came from Dennis’s inherent goodness, the same goodness we were lucky enough to receive and be around every day.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.