Oh, Bayside High! Just uttering those words probably brings a wave of nostalgia rushing over you, doesn’t it? From 1989 to 1993, ‘Saved by the Bell’ wasn’t just a TV show; it was a Saturday morning ritual, an essential part of growing up for an entire generation. Before its arrival, cartoons pretty much dominated the airwaves, but suddenly, tweens and teens finally had something that spoke directly to them, exploring themes that resonated with their own lives.
Originally charming audiences as ‘Good Morning, Miss Bliss,’ ‘Saved by the Bell’ really paved the way for a whole new era of teen dramas. Think ‘The O.C.,’ ‘Beverly Hills, 90210,’ and ‘Dawson’s Creek’ – they all owe a little something to Zack, Kelly, Lisa, Screech, Slater, and Jessie. While it tackled some pretty mature themes, the heart of the show, as its irresistibly catchy theme song always reminded us, was all about the joyful, often hilarious, exploits of this unforgettable group of friends, all under the watchful eye of the one and only Principal Mr. Belding.
Now, almost three decades since we last heard the school bell chime at Bayside (for the original run, anyway!), it’s time to grab your scrunchie, dust off your acid-wash jeans, and take a trip down memory lane. We’re diving deep into what the beloved cast members have been up to since their days of class projects, school dances, and epic schemes. Get ready to find out who’s still in the spotlight, who’s pursuing unexpected passions, and yes, who even became the governor of California in a wild reboot twist! Let’s get into it.
1. **Mark-Paul Gosselaar (Zack Morris)**Mark-Paul Gosselaar truly defined an era as the charmingly mischievous Zack Morris. He was the ultimate breaker of monotony, the one who famously broke the fourth wall to confide in us, the viewers, making him feel like our best friend right there on screen. His portrayal was so perfect, so effortless, that it’s hard to imagine anyone else in that role, delivering those iconic lines and hatching those unforgettable plans.
After his time leading the Bayside crew, Gosselaar wasn’t quite done with Zack. He gamely reprised his iconic role in a long line of ‘Saved by the Bell’ spinoffs, keeping the spirit of Morris alive for devoted fans. However, a talented actor always seeks new challenges, and Gosselaar made a conscious effort to depart from the quintessential ‘Morris persona’ by starring in the 1996 TV-film ‘She Cried No.’ This dramatic turn allowed him to showcase a different side of his acting chops, demonstrating his range beyond the sunny halls of Bayside High.
From there, he masterfully transitioned into a series of more mature, complex roles, proving that the “keen smarts and business savvy” he so often displayed as Zack Morris weren’t just for TV. He channeled that intelligence into playing a detective in the critically acclaimed ‘NYPD Blue,’ a shrewd campaign advisor in ‘Commander in Chief,’ and a sharp defense attorney in ‘Raising the Bar.’ These roles solidified his reputation as a versatile actor capable of tackling serious dramatic material.
He continued this impressive trend, further cementing his place in the legal drama genre by starring as Peter Bash in the engaging legal procedural dramedy ‘Franklin & Bash.’ This role, alongside his other projects, allowed him to explore nuanced characters and expand his impressive filmography. It’s clear that his post-Bayside career has been marked by a consistent dedication to compelling television.
Beyond these notable roles, Gosselaar has graced our screens in a variety of other popular TV shows, including a guest spot on ‘CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,’ a leading role in the baseball drama ‘Pitch,’ and a stint in the sci-fi thriller ‘The Passage.’ More recently, he’s been delighting audiences in ‘2019’s Mixed-ish,’ and was a regular on the first season of the ABC crime drama ‘Will Trent.’ Currently, fans can catch him in the NBC show ‘Found,’ proving he’s still a consistent presence in prime-time television.
But Mark-Paul Gosselaar isn’t just about the bright lights of Hollywood! Outside of the entertainment world, this dad of four leads an incredibly active life, revealing a surprising “wild side” that might just shock you. He’s not just a casual biker; he’s actually competed in and won major track cycling competitions around the globe, showing a dedication and athleticism that goes far beyond any schoolyard sport Zack Morris ever played. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the multi-talented individual he truly is.
Speaking of returns, Gosselaar was one of the beloved original cast members to appear in the 2020 ‘Saved by the Bell’ reboot. In a truly wild twist, he reprised his role as Zack Morris, who in this new iteration, had ascended to the lofty position of Governor of California! He joined fellow original stars Mario Lopez, Lark Voorhies, Tiffani Thiessen, and Elizabeth Berkley for this much-anticipated revival. While the reboot ultimately didn’t quite capture the magic of the original and was cancelled after one season, it was a fantastic treat for fans to see Zack, now 51, back in action, still exuding that quintessential charm and leadership, even if from the Governor’s mansion.
2. **Tiffani Thiessen (Kelly Kapowski)**Ah, Kelly Kapowski! The very name conjures images of wholesome beauty, an All-American Girl who captivated hearts and minds at Bayside High. Tiffani Thiessen brought Kelly to life with such infectious charm, making hordes of boys swoon with every smile and cheer. She was, without a doubt, Zack Morris’s Kryptonite, the one who could bring the troublemaker to his knees, and the reason both Zack and Slater famously went head-to-mullet vying for her affection. Her presence was truly iconic, defining a certain innocent yet compelling high school crush for an entire generation.
Thiessen’s undeniable charms and photogenic qualities were evident long before her ‘Saved by the Bell’ days. She first gained significant notice and public acclaim when she was crowned 1987’s Miss Junior America, a testament to her natural charisma and beauty. This early success foreshadowed the widespread recognition she would soon achieve on national television, proving her star quality was present from a young age.
While her portrayal of Kelly Kapowski remains instantly recognizable and beloved, Tiffani Thiessen wisely ensured that her career would not be defined by just one mega-role. She quickly segued into another iconic ’90s teen drama, ‘Beverly Hills, 90210,’ where she brilliantly played the more sultry and complex character of Valerie Malone. This role allowed her to showcase a darker, more sophisticated side of her acting abilities, proving her versatility and ensuring she wouldn’t be typecast as just the wholesome cheerleader.
Not content with two massive TV roles, Thiessen actively pursued a diverse acting career, taking on an array of TV-film roles. This proactive approach eventually led her to the big screen, securing a part in Woody Allen’s ‘Hollywood Ending’ in 2002. It was a clear demonstration of her ambition to explore different facets of the entertainment industry and work with acclaimed directors, expanding her craft beyond the small screen.
In recent years, Thiessen has continued to be a vibrant presence on television. She starred on popular TV shows such such as ‘White Collar,’ where she showcased her dramatic talents, and the Netflix show ‘Alexa & Katie,’ bringing her warmth and experience to a new generation of viewers. She truly has a knack for finding projects that resonate with audiences of all ages, maintaining her relevance in the ever-evolving television landscape.
Beyond acting, Tiffani Thiessen has developed a passion that has truly endeared her to fans: cooking! She embraced her culinary talents wholeheartedly, which led to her very own Cooking Channel show, ‘Dinner at Tiffani’s,’ which premiered in 2015. This was followed by hosting MTV’s ‘Deliciousness,’ further establishing her as a lifestyle and food personality. She’s even added “cookbook author” to her impressive resume, sharing her love for food with a wider audience. Most recently, she lent her distinctive voice to the character She-Hulk in the TV special ‘Lego Marvel Avengers: Mission Demolition,’ showcasing yet another dimension of her diverse career.
In her personal life, Tiffani is a proud mom of two children with her husband Brady Smith. For those curious about her Bayside romances, it’s worth noting that before settling down, she actually dated two of her ‘Saved by the Bell’ co-stars, Mark-Paul Gosselaar and Mario Lopez, bringing a touch of real-life drama to the on-screen love triangles! She also dated actor Brian Austin Green. Now 51, Thiessen continues to balance a successful career with a fulfilling family life, proving that Kelly Kapowski definitely grew up to be one amazing woman.
3. **Mario Lopez (A.C. Slater)**Before he was flexing those muscles and charming audiences as the beloved A.C. Slater, Mario Lopez was already a familiar face on television. Slater wasn’t his very first rodeo, actually! Prior to his breakout role at Bayside, Lopez appeared in shows like ‘a.k.a. Pablo,’ the music-heavy ‘Kids Incorporated,’ and even made a memorable appearance on the classic ‘The Golden Girls.’ It’s clear he was destined for the screen from a young age, honing his talents long before he graced the halls of Bayside High.
But it was his role as A.C. Slater that truly cemented his place in pop culture history. With those million-dollar dimples and an undeniable athletic charm, Lopez absolutely nailed the character of Slater, the wrestling champ with a surprisingly soft side. After ‘Saved by the Bell,’ his career soared to incredible heights, transitioning from teen heartthrob to a massively successful TV and radio host, professional actor, and even a fitness book author. He proved that his charisma was perfect for connecting with audiences in many different ways.
Lopez’s hosting career has been nothing short of spectacular. He became a household name hosting ‘Extra,’ then moved on to ‘The X Factor’ and ‘America’s Best Dance Crew,’ where his energetic personality and interviewing skills shone. He is now one of the dynamic hosts of ‘Access Hollywood,’ keeping millions of viewers updated on the latest celebrity gossip and entertainment news. His natural ability to engage with stars and audiences alike has made him a staple on red carpets and talk shows for decades.
Always up for a challenge, Lopez also wowed audiences with his moves, coming in an impressive second place on the third season of ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ His dedication to fitness, much like his character Slater, has remained a constant throughout his life, inspiring many through his fitness books. He is still just as interested in physical prowess, holding a purple belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, showcasing a commitment to discipline and strength that is truly admirable.
In a fantastic treat for fans, Mario Lopez reprised his role as A.C. Slater in the 2020 ‘Saved by the Bell’ reboot. In the new series, Slater was the gym teacher and Bayside High’s football coach, providing continuity and a familiar face for returning viewers. He also branched out into other acting roles, including a series of charming Christmas movies, and even starred in his own reality show, ‘Mario Lopez: Saved by the Baby,’ giving fans a peek into his life as a new dad.
Beyond acting and hosting, Lopez has also ventured into the music scene, notably getting involved in reviving the iconic boy band Menudo. He helped them release their first single, “Mi Amore,” just last year, demonstrating his multifaceted talents and entrepreneurial spirit. He also recently appeared in the film ‘Heads of State,’ further adding to his acting credits. This incredibly busy dad of three, married to Courtney Mazza, has even found time to write three books – two focused on fitness, and one a heartwarming tribute to his daughter, reflecting his commitment to both a healthy lifestyle and his family. Now 51, Lopez continues to be a vibrant and influential figure in entertainment.
4. **Elizabeth Berkley (Jessie Spano)**Elizabeth Berkley brought so much more than just brains and beauty to Bayside High; she embodied the strong-willed, feminist-minded Jessie Spano. Jessie was the moral compass, the one who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind, and whose intense, yet loving, relationship with “meathead” Slater provided some of the show’s most memorable and heartfelt moments. Her character tackled serious issues, making Jessie a role model for many young viewers who admired her intelligence and conviction.
Two years after leaving the wholesome halls of Bayside, Berkley made a dramatic and, at the time, highly controversial move. She took on the racy role of showgirl Nomi Malone in the film ‘Showgirls.’ This was a very deliberate attempt to shed her “good girl” image and make a bold statement in her transition to the silver screen. The film, unfortunately, did not go according to plan, becoming a major critical and commercial failure at the time, creating a challenging period for Berkley in her career.
Despite the initial setback from ‘Showgirls,’ Elizabeth Berkley showed incredible resilience and determination. After her image recovered and the dust settled, she gracefully navigated her career, landing supporting roles in significant films. She appeared in Oliver Stone’s football drama ‘Any Given Sunday’ and Woody Allen’s quirky ‘The Curse of the Jade Scorpion,’ demonstrating her ability to work with respected directors and take on diverse characters beyond her teen idol past.
Her career continued to evolve with appearances in several TV movies and popular shows such as ‘CSI: Miami,’ ‘The L Word,’ and ‘Baywatch,’ showcasing her range across different genres. More recently, fans have delighted in seeing her on ‘Cobra Kai’ and ‘All’s Fair,’ proving her enduring appeal and adaptability in the television landscape. Berkley clearly never shies away from a new challenge, always pushing her craft forward.
Beyond her acting endeavors, Elizabeth Berkley is a passionate and outspoken animal rights activist. She has been a central figure in PETA campaigns, tirelessly advocating for animal welfare. Her dedication to the cause has even earned her the distinction of being nominated as the “Sexiest Vegetarian of the Year” on multiple occasions, highlighting her commitment to a compassionate lifestyle and her willingness to use her platform for good.
Berkley has also dedicated herself to empowering young girls, recognizing the unique challenges they face. She started her advice website and companion book, ‘Ask-Elizabeth,’ creating a valuable resource where she offers guidance and support to teen girls navigating life’s myriad problems. This initiative reflects her desire to make a positive impact and continue the spirit of her character Jessie, who always sought to help her friends.
Like many of her former castmates, Elizabeth Berkley also graced the dance floor, competing on the seventeenth season of ‘Dancing with the Stars,’ where she impressed audiences and placed a respectable sixth. In a heartwarming return for fans, Berkley reprised her iconic role as Jessie Spano in the 2020 ‘Saved by the Bell’ reboot. In this new series, Jessie was a guidance counselor at Bayside, still radiating intelligence and empathy, a role that felt perfectly suited to her character’s evolution. Married to clothing designer Greg Lauren since 2003, Berkley welcomed their son in 2012. Now 52, she continues to be a vibrant force, balancing family, activism, and a thriving acting career.
5. **Dustin Diamond (Samuel ‘Screech’ Powers)**Every unforgettable high school crew needs its resident genius, and for Bayside High, that was undoubtedly Samuel “Screech” Powers, brilliantly brought to life by Dustin Diamond. Screech was the quirky, lovable nerd who was constantly inventing bizarre contraptions, often getting the gang into—and sometimes out of—hilarious predicaments that only a Bayside genius could conjure. His unrequited love for Lisa Turtle was a running gag that tugged at our heartstrings, making him instantly relatable to anyone who ever crushed on someone seemingly out of their league. Diamond truly made Screech an iconic TV character, embodying the spirit of the token nerd with unparalleled charm, earnestness, and a touch of the absurd.
However, life after the final bell at Bayside proved to be a significantly more challenging path for Diamond than for his onscreen friends. While Screech might have stumbled into comical mishaps with his inventions, Dustin Diamond found himself grappling with very public and often “precarious situations” that kept him firmly in the media’s spotlight, though not always for the most positive reasons. In 2006, he unfortunately re-entered the public consciousness in a rather infamous way after releasing a foul-named tape, a move that starkly contrasted with his previously wholesome Bayside image. This was followed by a series of appearances on various reality and game shows, including ‘Celebrity Boxing 2,’ ‘The Weakest Link,’ and ‘Celebrity Fit Club,’ where he continued to navigate the complexities of post-fame life under intense scrutiny.
His journey also included stirring up “plenty of flak from his fellow Saved by the Bell colleagues” after the publication of his tell-all book, ‘Behind the Bell,’ where he reportedly aired some “dirty laundry” concerning his time on the show. This created a visible rift with some of his former castmates, further complicating his relationship with the enduring legacy of Bayside. Unfortunately, Diamond’s struggles continued beyond these public disputes, culminating in legal troubles that ultimately led to a prison sentence. In 2015, he was convicted for carrying a concealed weapon and disorderly conduct, serving a four-month term in prison in 2016 following a bar brawl in Port Washington, WI, experiences that painted a stark picture of the difficulties he faced away from the comfort of a sitcom set.
Despite these widely publicized challenges and controversies, Diamond reportedly continued to pursue stand-up comedy and connect with fans, albeit sometimes through a controversial lens. He was dating Tash Jules at the time of his passing, suggesting a personal life away from the public struggles that often defined his later years. Tragically, in February 2021, the world mourned the heartbreaking loss of Dustin Diamond, who passed away at the young age of 44 due to carcinoma. His diagnosis with an aggressive form of cancer came just three weeks before his death, marking a sudden and devastating end to a life that had seen incredible highs as a child star and profound personal lows.
The news of his death deeply saddened fans and former colleagues alike, prompting many to reflect on his enduring contribution to pop culture and the complexities of child stardom. While his post-Bayside life was undoubtedly multifaceted and often difficult, his portrayal of Screech Powers remains an indelible part of television history, a testament to the unforgettable character he created. Even with the reported distance between him and some cast members, his legacy as the ultimate Bayside brainiac lives on, reminding us all of the innocent, quirky charm he brought to our Saturday mornings and the joy he brought to millions of young viewers.
6. **Lark Voorhies (Lisa Turtle)**Who could ever forget Bayside High’s ultimate style icon, Lisa Turtle? Brought to vibrant life by the effortlessly chic Lark Voorhies, Lisa was the school’s resident fashionista, always perfectly on-trend and perpetually the object of Screech’s enduring, if often misguided, affection. With her “photogenic looks” and undeniable charisma, it’s truly no surprise that Voorhies was landing acting gigs from the tender age of two, clearly destined for the spotlight long before she graced the halls of Bayside. Her portrayal of Lisa was sassy, smart, and always impeccably put-together, making her a beloved character who inspired many with her confidence and flair.
After bidding a stylish farewell to the fashion-forward world of Lisa Turtle, Voorhies didn’t slow down, diving headfirst into a diverse array of roles that cemented her presence across 90s television. She became a familiar face on popular soap operas, securing recurring roles on both ‘Days of Our Lives’ and ‘The Bold and the Beautiful,’ showcasing her dramatic versatility and ability to tackle different genres. Fans also delighted in her appearances on the iconic sci-fi classic ‘Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,’ the beloved family sitcom ‘Family Matters,’ and memorable turns as a captivating love interest in both ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and ‘In the House.’ Her impressive list of credits clearly demonstrated a determined actress eager to explore different characters and expand her craft beyond her breakout teen role.
However, like many who grow up in the unforgiving glare of the public eye, Voorhies also faced a period of intense scrutiny and personal challenges in the mid-2000s. Media attention turned sharply towards her when she began exhibiting “some odd behavior in TV interviews,” sparking concern among fans and the media alike. The National Enquirer even published distressing reports suggesting she had a drug problem, leading Voorhies to sue them for libel, steadfastly denying the accusations and fighting for her reputation. This challenging time highlighted the immense pressures of fame and the often-unforgiving nature of the spotlight, as she bravely navigated personal struggles while maintaining her professional resolve and a desire to control her own narrative.
In the face of these personal and public trials, Lark Voorhies remained remarkably focused on her career and took proactive steps to assert her independence within the entertainment industry. She bravely continued to pursue her creative passions, even venturing into entrepreneurship by starting her own production company, Yo Soy Productions, a testament to her resilient spirit and determination to create her own opportunities. Beyond her on-screen work, Voorhies has also impressively self-published three books, showcasing yet another captivating dimension of her artistic talents and her desire to express herself through different mediums, proving her creativity extends far beyond acting.
In recent years, Voorhies has seemingly stepped away from the demanding world of regular acting roles, choosing a quieter path and focusing on her well-being, though she did make a welcome return for the ‘Saved by the Bell’ reboot. In 2020, she candidly and courageously revealed her diagnosis with schizoaffective disorder, offering valuable insight into the challenges she had been facing and bravely raising awareness for mental health. Now 51, she leads a more private life, having been married twice and dated actor Martin Lawrence, but is currently single and without children. Her enduring connection to Lisa Turtle, however, ensures she remains a cherished part of the Bayside legacy, a true icon of ’90s cool and a testament to her enduring spirit.
7. **Dennis Haskins (Mr. Belding)**”Hey, hey, hey — what is going on here?” Just reading that iconic catchphrase instantly transports us back to the hallowed, often chaotic, halls of Bayside High, and the one and only Principal Richard Belding, portrayed with a perfect blend of paternal exasperation and underlying warmth by Dennis Haskins. Even before ‘Saved by the Bell’ became a Saturday morning phenomenon that captured the hearts of millions, Haskins was already expertly playing the beloved principal in its “beta incarnation,” ‘Good Morning, Miss Bliss.’ His consistent, reassuring presence provided a much-needed adult anchor for the mischievous gang, making him an enduring and instantly recognizable figure who felt like a part of our own school days.
Haskins, with his characteristic good humor, embraced his most famous role with an infectious enthusiasm, clearly understanding the indelible mark Mr. Belding had made on pop culture. He famously reprised his role in the long-running spinoff ‘Saved by the Bell: The New Class,’ ensuring a fresh generation of viewers also got to experience Principal Belding’s unique brand of guidance, exasperation, and occasional dance moves. Beyond his direct involvement in the ‘Saved by the Bell’ universe, Haskins has shown a fantastic sense of humor about his iconic character, even “pok[ing] fun at his turn as Belding” by releasing a wonderfully quirky, karaoke-themed album titled ‘Karaoke With Your Favorite Principal Dennis,’ a delightful nod to his enduring legacy.
While it’s nearly “hard not to associate him with the timely catchphrase” and his signature administrative style, Dennis Haskins is far more than just Mr. Belding in a blazer. He continued to actively pursue his passion for acting, showcasing his versatility in a series of compelling bit roles across various popular television shows that surprised and delighted audiences. Viewers might have caught him delivering sharp lines in critically acclaimed dramas like ‘Mad Men,’ where he demonstrated a different facet of his acting prowess, or perhaps spotted him bringing comedic timing to fan-favorite sitcoms such as ‘How I Met Your Mother,’ ‘It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia,’ ‘New Girl,’ and ‘Hot in Cleveland.’ These diverse appearances clearly proved his enduring appeal and his ability to contribute memorable moments to a wide range of projects, cementing his place in television history beyond Bayside.
At 74 years old, Dennis Haskins has led a long and fascinating career, forever linked to the character who taught us the importance of punctuality, a little bit of principal-defying fun, and the meaning of a good “Zack Attack.” He is known to have one child with his ex-wife, balancing his extensive professional life with his family responsibilities. His portrayal of Mr. Belding transcends a simple sitcom role; he embodied the archetypal, often beleaguered, but ultimately caring authority figure who navigated the endless antics of Zack and his friends. His legacy is one of consistent charm, good humor, and a timeless connection to the very heart and soul of Bayside High, a principal who truly felt like part of our own adolescence.
Wow, what an incredible journey it’s been catching up with the unforgettable crew from Bayside High! It’s truly amazing to see how the lives of the ‘Saved by the Bell’ gang have unfolded since we last heard that iconic school bell ring. From continued superstardom and impressive career pivots, like Tiffani’s cooking empire and Mario’s hosting dominance, to deeply personal battles and heartwarming activism, each member of the cast has truly written their own unique and compelling story. They’ve faced triumphs, navigated challenges, and through it all, they’ve left an undeniable mark on our hearts and on television history, proving that the bonds forged at Bayside were truly special. ‘Saved by the Bell’ was undeniably more than just a show; it was a cultural touchstone that shaped a generation, and the enduring legacies of its stars continue to prove just how special, influential, and utterly beloved Bayside truly was and still is.
