Actor Dennis Haskins, known as Mr. Belding on ‘Saved by the Bell’, dies at 75

Dennis Haskins, the actor best known for portraying Principal Richard Belding on the 1980s and 1990s sitcom “Saved by the Bell,” died at the age of 75. His death was reported by several entertainment outlets, confirming the loss of the long‑time television figure.

Haskins began his career in the 1970s, appearing in a variety of television series and commercials before landing the role of Mr. Belding in 1988. He continued in the part through the original series, its spin‑offs “The College Years” and “The New Class,” and made guest appearances in later revivals, cementing the character as a cultural touchstone of teen sitcoms.

Beyond “Saved by the Bell,” Haskins made occasional appearances in other TV shows and films, often playing authority figures or cameo roles that referenced his iconic principal persona. His work extended into voice‑over projects and public appearances, where he frequently engaged with fans of the series.

Industry colleagues and fans have highlighted Haskins’ contribution to the genre of children’s and teen television, noting that his portrayal of a supportive yet humorous school administrator helped shape the tone of the program. The actor’s consistent presence on the show contributed to its enduring popularity and influence on later teen‑oriented series.

Haskins’ death marks the passing of a figure whose role on “Saved by the Bell” remains a recognizable element of late‑20th‑century American pop culture, and his work continues to be referenced in discussions of the moral and educational themes that characterized the era’s youth programming.