Actor Dustin Diamond, famous for his role as Samuel “Screech” Powers on Saved by the Bell, died at age 44 of carcinoma, Monday February 1, 2021.
In a statement by a representative for the actor, it stated,
We are saddened to confirm of Dustin Diamond’s passing on Monday, February 1st, 2021 due to carcinoma. He was diagnosed with this brutal, relentless form of malignant cancer only three weeks ago. 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.”
In 2009, his book “Behind The Bell” caused controversy due to him sharing some behind the scenes stories about being less than flattering to his costars. He also found himself in legal trouble, serving three months in jail for stabbing a man during a 2014 altercation at a bar in Wisconsin.
The actor has appeared in a number of reality shows over the years, including “Celebrity Fit Club,” “Celebrity Boxing 2,” and “Celebrity Big Brother UK”, where he lasted 16 days before being eliminated.
Diamond’s “Save by the Bell” costars, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Mario Lopez and Tiffany Thiessen, paid tribute on social media.
“Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dustin Diamond, a true comedic genius,” Gosselaar tweeted. “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.”
“Dustin, you will be missed my man,” Lopez wrote on Instagram. “The fragility of this life is something never to be taken for granted. Prayers for your family will continue on.”
Diamond is survived by his spouse Jennifer Misner, whom he was married to his 2009.
