Actor Dustin Diamond has passed away at the age of 44 following a battle with lung cancer.
He was best known for playing “Screech” on the sitcom Saved by the Bell.
A post on Diamond’s fan page confirmed his passing Monday stating, “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.”
The actor was admitted to hospital three weeks ago complaining of body pain and “general unease.”
Diamond appeared in a two-other Saved by the Bell spinoffs and continued to work in various film and tv roles.
His cast mate Mario Lopez tweeted he will be missed adding the fragility of this life is something never to be taken for granted.
Dustin, you will be missed my man. The fragility of this life is something never to be taken for granted. Prayers for your family will continue on… pic.twitter.com/BnxY9XgN5g
— Mario Lopez (@mariolopezviva) February 1, 2021
Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dustin Diamond, a true comedic genius. 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.
— Mark-Paul Gosselaar (@MPG) February 1, 2021