“Saved by the Bell” alum Dennis Haskins, who played Mr. Belding on the hit series, made his last public appearance almost a decade before his death.
The actor was photographed attending a Los Angeles Clippers and San Antonio Spurs game on December 29, 2018.
Haskins prepared for the occasion and was all smiles at the Crypto.com Arena, then known as Staples Center.
Haskins has made multiple appearances before an NBA game, from his opening night performance of “A Bronx Tale” to the premiere of “Lucha Vavoom: Inside America’s Most Outrageous Show” in October 2018.
She was also seen walking in Los Angeles in November 2018.
Haskins hasn’t been seen in public since watching the Spurs beat the Clippers the following month.
News of the 75-year-old man’s death broke on Monday, and his longtime friend and caregiver confirmed the news to WCTV.
Her manager, Jay Schachter, later spoke to the Hollywood Reporter about the “tragic loss.”
“Everybody loved Mr. Belding, and those of us who knew Dennis loved him even more,” he told a media outlet. “He was a great person and he loved his fans, I mean he absolutely LOVED them.
“He always had time for them no matter what,” Schachter added. “He was a client and dear friend of mine for over 20 years and I will miss him dearly. I am heartbroken.”
While the cause of Haskins’ death is not yet known, a tribute posted on Instagram by Haskins’ alleged “foundation” Dimples Karaoke bar in Burbank, California, claimed that he suffered from Parkinson’s disease.
“He had kept quiet about his battle with Parkinson’s disease, among other health issues, because he didn’t want to attract attention,” the lengthy headline said. “He didn’t want to have to tell people. ‘What am I going to say?’ ” he was asking.”
The social media upload continued: “I respected his wishes and stayed quiet and helped him on his journey to the next chapter of his life. What a cool and amazing life he had. Rest in peace Dennis. You are so loved and will never be forgotten.”
Haskins notably played “America’s Favorite Manager” from 1988 to 2000; The previous run of “Saved by the Bell” started with “Good Morning, Miss Happiness” and ended with the “New Class” reboot.
He even reprized his role on 2015’s “Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.”
His other acting credits include roles on “The West Wing,” “Mad Men,” “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,” “7th Heaven” and many more.
Haskins’ son Dustin survives.