Actor Dennis Haskins, known for playing Principal Belding, dies at 75

Dennis Haskins, an American actor and musician who portrayed Principal Richard Belding on the 1990s sitcom "Saved by the Bell," died at 75, his agent Jay Schachter confirmed. Schachter described Haskins as a "great person" who was devoted to his fans and said he would miss him "terribly."

Haskins first appeared as Belding on the Disney Channel series "Good Morning, Miss Bliss," which was retooled by NBC into "Saved by the Bell" after its initial season. He continued the role in the spin-off "Saved by the Bell: The New Class," remaining with the franchise for more than a decade.

Born on Nov. 18, 1950, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Haskins began his screen career in 1979 with an episode of "The Dukes of Hazzard" and later held guest spots on shows such as "Mad Men," "How I Met Your Mother" and "It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia." He also appeared in the film "A Million Ways to Die in the West" and made a cameo in Khalid’s music video for “Young Dumb & Broke.”

In addition to acting, Haskins performed music, toured with USO shows for troops abroad, and released a novelty album titled "Karaoke With Your Favorite Principal Dennis" in 2009. Friends noted his long-standing involvement with the Dimples Karaoke venue, which he frequented for performances and fan interactions.

Haskins had been dealing with Parkinson’s disease and other health issues for several years, according to a close friend who managed his care. He passed away late last night, ending a career that made him an enduring figure for a generation of television viewers.