OR

source: nydailynews.com
07 Jan, 1977
01 Feb, 2021
Small cell carcinoma
American
Comedian
44
Dustin Diamond, who was born on January 7, 1977, gained fame as an American actor and comedian. He is best remembered for his portrayal of Samuel “Screech” Powers in the widely popular television series called “Saved by the Bell.” Raised in San Jose, California, Diamond’s passion for acting emerged during his early years.
Dustin started his journey in the entertainment industry by playing roles in the TV movie “Yogi’s Great Escape” and the series “It’s a Living.” However, he got his big break by playing Screech on “Good Morning, Miss Bliss” in 1988, which was the precursor for “Saved by the Bell,” where his character became an iconic figure.
“Saved by the Bell” rapidly became a cultural phenomenon and enjoyed four successful seasons. The show was based on the life of a group of friends at Bayside High School in California. Diamond’s character, Screech, was the lovable geek and comedic sidekick to lead character Zack Morris. Dustin played Screech with such charm that he won over fans’ hearts and played a crucial part in the show’s triumph.
Following the conclusion of “Saved by the Bell,” Dustin Diamond reprised his beloved character through various spin-offs and made-for-television movies like “Saved by the Bell: The College Years” and “Saved by the Bell: The New Class.” However, his career after leaving this iconic show did not reach comparable levels of success.
Following the conclusion of “Saved by the Bell,” Dustin explored various avenues and made appearances as himself in movies such as “Made” and “Dickie Roberts: Former Child Star.” However, it was his infamous 2006 sex tape that garnered a lot of attention for the actor during this time.
Dustin released his memoir titled “Behind the Bell,” which provided a behind-the-scenes look at his time on “Saved by the Bell.” The book sparked a lot of controversy due to the alleged controversies surrounding the cast members, including Dustin himself. This also caused a rift between Diamond and the other cast members.
His personal life didn’t improve much either, as Diamond faced legal troubles. In 2014, he found himself involved in an altercation at a bar located in Wisconsin. This incident led to his arrest on charges related to carrying a concealed weapon as well as disorderly conduct. Consequently, he served several months behind bars due to these convictions.
Aside from his legal troubles, Diamond also encountered financial difficulties. To alleviate debts, he decided to auction off memorabilia from his time on “Saved by the Bell” in 2006. Additionally, he sought opportunities on reality television programs like “Celebrity Fit Club” and “Celebrity Big Brother” as a means to revitalize his career and generate income.
In spite of the obstacles he faced, Diamond expressed a strong desire to reconcile with his former castmates from “Saved by the Bell” and make amends for any past conflicts. However, these attempts at reconciliation were met with mixed responses.
Sadly, on February 1, 2021, Dustin Diamond passed away at the age of 44 due to carcinoma—a type of cancer. This news marked a tragic end to his life’s journey.
Dustin Diamond
Dustin Diamond
Male
Small cell carcinoma
San Jose, California, U.S.
Cape Coral, Florida, U.S.
Entertainer: Diamond was known to be outgoing and friendly. He thrived being in social situations and he had a strong energy level.
He wrote a book called Behind the Bell in which he claimed to expose the truth about the cast’s off-screen lies.
Diamond briefly formed a band called “Salty the Pocketknife”
He was arrested in 2014 after getting into a physical altercation at a bar.
Diamond released a comedy album called Saved by the Smell
Competed on reality shows like “Celebrity Fit Club” and “Celebrity Big Brother”
Won Young Artist Award for Outstanding Young Ensemble Cast in a Television Series for “Saved by the Bell” in 1991
Won TV Guide Award for Favorite Ensemble (shared with the cast) for “Saved by the Bell: The College Years” in 1994
Released his own instructional video “Dustin Diamond Teaches Chess” in 2001
Won TV Guide Award for Editor’s Choice (shared with the cast) for “Saved by the Bell” in 1993
Won TV Land Award for Impact Award (shared with the cast) for “Saved by the Bell” in 2004
Nominated for MTV Movie Award for Best Cameo in “Made” in 2002
Won Young Artist Award for Best Ensemble Performance in a TV Movie or Special for “Saved by the Bell: Hawaiian Style” in 1993
Won YoungStar Award for Best Young Ensemble Cast – Television for “Saved by the Bell” in 1995
Played Samuel “Screech” Powers across multiple “Saved by the Bell” series and spin-offs from 1988 to 2000, becoming an iconic character in teen television