Definitely an actor we all grew up watching…

In news that has shocked the TV world, Saved By The Bell star Dustin Diamond has passed away from stage 4 lung cancer at 44. He was diagnosed only three weeks ago according to a statement from his spokesperson, but in that time it “managed to spread rapidly throughout his system; the only mercy it exhibited was its sharp and swift execution.

“Dustin did not suffer. He did not have to lie submerged in pain. For that, we are grateful.”

Known best for his breakout role in Samuel “Screech” Powers in Saved By The Bell, Diamond led an illustrious career in TV, going on to appear in the various spin-offs of the show such as Saved by the Bell: Hawaiian Style, Saved by the Bell: The College Years, Saved by the Bell: Wedding in Las Vegas, and Saved by the Bell: The New Class, all while portraying his iconic character Screech. Aside from TV, he also moonlighted as a stand up comic, while making appearances on reality TV shows such as Celebrity Boxing 2, Hogan’s Celebrity Championship Wrestling and World’s Dumbest and Celebrity Big Brother. He also published a tell-all book about his Saved By The Bell experience in 2016.

Tributes are already rolling in from his former cast mates, with stars like Mario Lopez, Tiffani Thiessen, Mark-Paul Gosselaar and so many more taking to social media to remember the star.

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