Saved By The Bell actor Dennis Haskins, who played school principal Richard Belding in the hit US sitcom, has died aged 75.
His co-star Lark Voorhies remembered him as "a loyal friend" and said knowing him for almost 40 years had been "one of the truest blessings" of her life.
Haskins' agent Jay Schachter confirmed his death in a statement to US media. A cause of death was not given.
Voorhies, who played Lisa Turtle in Saved By The Bell, paid tribute to the actor on Instagram.
"We shared so much history together from our earliest days, and through it all, he remained a fabulous person, a loyal friend, and someone with such a kind, gentle heart," she wrote.
"I am truly heartbroken by his passing and will miss his warmth and laughter more than words can say.
"Rest in peace Dennis, you will always hold a special place in my heart."
Haskins played Mr Belding in Saved By The Bell from 1989 to 1993 and later reprised the role in Saved By The Bell: The New Class, which ran from 1993 to 2000.
He had previously appeared as the character in Good Morning, Miss Bliss, the series that preceded Saved By The Bell.
Haskins also appeared in Saved By The Bell: The College Years and the TV films Saved By The Bell: Hawaiian Style and Saved By The Bell: Wedding In Las Vegas.
His agent described his death as "a tragic loss".
"Everyone loved Mr Belding and those of us who got to know Dennis, loved him even more," Schachter said.
"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."
Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Haskins began his television career with appearances in The Dukes Of Hazzard.
His other credits included the film A Million Ways To Die In The West and television shows The West Wing, It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, Mad Men and How I Met Your Mother.
Source: Press Association
