Saved By The Bell star Dennis Haskins dies aged 75

US actor Dennis Haskins, known for starring in American teen sitcom Saved By The Bell, has died aged 75.

Haskins, who played school principal Richard Belding in the hit series, has been described as “a loyal friend” and a “great person”.

Lark Voorhies, who starred alongside Haskins as student Lisa Turtle, paid tribute to a “fabulous person…with such a kind, gentle heart”.

In a post on Instagram she said: “Knowing Dennis Haskins for almost 40 years has been one of the truest blessings of my life, which makes losing him hurt so deeply.

“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’ agent Jay Schachter said he was “heartbroken” and described his death as a “tragic loss”. A cause of death was not given.

In a statement he said: “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.”

Born in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Haskins got his first TV role in The Dukes Of Hazzard, appearing in several episodes as various characters.

He starred in Saved By The Bell from 1989 to 1993 and also appeared in spin-off show Saved By The Bell: The New Class, which ran from 1993 to 2000, and predecessor Good Morning, Miss Bliss, which ran from 1988 to 1989.

Haskins also appeared in the spin-off show Saved By The Bell: The College Years (1993), and two Saved By The Bell films: Saved By The Bell: Hawaiian Style (1992) and Saved By The Bell: Wedding In Las Vegas (1994).

Other acting roles saw him appear in the film A Million Ways To Die In The West (2014), and TV series such as The West Wing, It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, Mad Men, and How I Met Your Mother.