Dustin Diamond, Screech from ‘Saved by the Bell’, Passes Away at 44

The funny best friend from Bayside High School has sadly passed away. Dustin Diamond, better known by his character Samuel “Screech” Powers on Saved by the Bell, has succumbed to an unexpected illness that took everyone by surprise.

Dustin Diamond’s Unanticipated Twist

The late actor revealed his unfortunate diagnosis just last month. Diamond reported that he had stage 4 lung cancer, which is the most advanced stage in the disease. At that point, the cancer had reached both of his lungs, leaving any huge treatment essentially futile. Dustin Diamond then sought help at a Florida hospital before his representative, Roger Paul, confirmed the actor’s finality. Paul spoke with The Hollywood Reporter following Diamond’s passing:

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.”

Dustin Diamond leaves behind an intriguing history of roles and actions. Aside from playing Screech for more than a decade, Diamond went on to pursue other entertainment ventures. He told jokes as a stand-up comic, appeared on Celebrity Boxing 2, and dedicated some exercising time while on Celebrity Fit Club. He was also known for being in a somewhat talked about sex tape back in 2006. Diamond’s film roles include Made, Pauly Shore Is Dead, and College Fright Night.

Additionally, he released a controversial behind-the-scenes book entitled Behind the Bell that supposedly unveiled secrets and gossip concerning his time on Saved by the Bell. Other legal issues and financial stresses would weigh Diamond down, but he certainly tried to keep himself busy despite his personal disagreements.  Nevertheless, he’ll always be Screech to us, and we’re saddened to hear of his unforeseen passing.

Dustin was a humorous and high-spirited individual whose greatest passion was to make others laugh. He was able to sense and feel other peoples’ emotions to such a length that he was able to feel them too—a strength and a flaw, all in one.”

Were you a fan of Dustin Diamond’s performance in Screech alongside his other works? Let us know in the comments below.