‘Saved by the Bell’ star got $12 check after fame, was ‘trapped’ as Screech before tragic death: co-star
Dustin Diamond, best known for his role as Screech on the '90s sitcom 'Saved by the Bell,' struggled with typecasting and financial hardship after the show ended. Despite the series' success, he received minimal residuals, including a reported $12 check, and faced personal and professional challenges. He died in 2021 at age 44 after a brief battle with cancer, with co-stars reflecting on his difficulties escaping the shadow of his iconic character.
- ▪Dustin Diamond played Screech on 'Saved by the Bell' and its spin-offs from 1989 to 1993.
- ▪He received low residuals from the show, with one check reportedly amounting to only $12.
- ▪Co-star Ed Alonzo said Diamond was 'trapped' by his role and struggled to find diverse acting opportunities.
- ▪Diamond filed for bankruptcy in 2001 and lost his home due to unpaid mortgage.
- ▪His life and struggles are featured in an episode of Investigation Discovery's 'Hollywood Demons.'
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Child Stars ‘Saved by the Bell’ star got $12 check after fame, was ‘trapped’ as Screech before tragic death: co-star Co-star Ed Alonzo says Dustin Diamond struggled to escape typecasting before his death at age 44 By Stephanie Nolasco Fox News Published May 4, 2026 12:00pm EDT Facebook Twitter Threads Flipboard Comments Print Email Add Fox News on Google close Video Former Disney star Maitland Ward says young actors were treated like a 'product' in Hollywood factory The former ‘Boy Meets World’ actress turned adult film star stars in an episode of ‘Hollywood Demons’ NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles! Dustin Diamond was "trapped" in his role as Screech on the hit ‘90s sitcom "Saved by the Bell," a role he never fully escaped before a three-week battle with cancer ended his life.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Fox News.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from Fox News
