Dennis Haskins, the American actor widely recognised for his role as Principal Richard Belding in the television sitcom Saved By The Bell, has died at the age of 75.

His death was confirmed on Tuesday by his longtime agent and friend, Jay Schachter. No cause of death or further details were immediately disclosed.

Schachter, who represented Haskins for more than two decades, described the actor as a remarkable person who maintained a strong connection with his fans.

Haskins gained widespread recognition for portraying Belding, the principal of the fictional Bayside High School, in Saved By The Bell, which aired from 1989 to 1993.

The series centred on a group of teenagers and their experiences at the Southern California high school, with Haskins’ character frequently attempting to keep the students and their antics under control.

Lark Voorhies, who played Lisa Turtle on the sitcom, also paid tribute to Haskins in an Instagram post.

Voorhies said her nearly four decades of knowing Haskins had been “one of the truest blessings” of her life, describing him as a loyal friend with a kind and gentle heart.

Born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Haskins developed an interest in theatre during his school years. A biography from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga said he participated in his school drama club and helped establish a community theatre group.

Before becoming an actor, Haskins worked in the music industry as a manager, agent and concert promoter. His clients reportedly included musicians Tom Jones and Gregg Allman.

He later moved into television acting, appearing in shows including The Twilight Zone and Magnum, P.I. during the 1980s before landing the role that would become his most recognisable television character.