He was 44.
An actor and stand-up comedian, Diamond, has been known for the role of Samuel “Screech” Powers for more than a decade in the “Saved by the Bell” franchise.
The teen series was recently featured by the Peacock streaming service featuring some of the original stars, though not Diamond.
He sparked controversy with his 2009 book “Behind the Bell”, in which Diamond shared behind-the-scenes stories about the shooting of the series, with some of his versions being less than flattering to his costar.
He also faced legal problems and served three months in prison for stabbing a man during a 2014 altercation at a bar in Wisconsin.
The actor has appeared in a number of reality shows over the years, including ‘Celebrity Fit Club’, ‘Celebrity Boxing 2’ and ‘Celebrity Championship Wrestling’.
“Deeply sad to hear of the passing of Dustin Diamond, a true comic genius,” Gosselaar tweeted. “My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Looking back on our time working together, I will miss the raw, brilliant sparks that only he could produce. A cake in your face, my comrade.”
“Dustin, you will miss my husband,” Lopez wrote on Instagram. “The fragility of this life is something that is never taken for granted. Prayers for your family will continue.”