Saved By The Bell has officially been renewed for Season 2 at NBC’s streaming service, Peacock. The reboot featured looks at the lives of all of the original cast members, except for Dustin Diamond’s Screech Powers.
There had been talks of bringing Diamond in for a cameo during Season 2 of the series. However, he tragically passed away just weeks after being diagnosed with cancer. Now, the question on viewers’ minds is whether or not the reboot will address Dustin’s death.
Will Saved By The Bell pay tribute to Dustin Diamond?
During Season 1, it was revealed that Screech was on the space station, obviously using his smarts to work for NASA. However, he wasn’t seen.
Meanwhile, Mark Paul Gosselaar’s Zack and Tiffani Thiessen’s Kelly played big roles on the show as the parents of one of the lead characters, Mac Morris. Of course, Elizabeth Berkley’s Jessie Spano appeared in every episode as Bayside High’s guidance counselor, and Mario Lopez was also a fixture as the school’s gym teacher and coach.
In addition, Lark Voorhies made a quick cameo as Lisa Turtle, who was busy being a fashion designer in another country.
There are a few ways that Saved By The Bell could go about a tribute to Dustin and the character of Screech. There could be an obvious photo and in memoriam before or after the first or last episode of the season.
Will Screech die on the reboot?
However, the series could also write in Screech’s death as a way to honor Dustin Diamond’s passing. Other television shows have killed off characters after actor’s deaths.
Shows such as Glee and 8 Simple Rules decided to honor their actors with a death that payed homage to both the actor and the character.
Perhaps, the Bayside High gang could get together for a funeral or memorial as they talk about what Screech Powers meant to them. Some of Diamond’s best clips as the character would also offer a nice homage to his work.
According to TMZ, the Saved By The Bell reboot was considering adding Screech to Season 2 for some fresh storylines and even more comic relief.
“They were in talks about possibly reviving some Screech storylines for future episodes,” a source told the outlet.
Following the news of Diamond’s death on Feb. 1, his former co-stars took to social media to share their heartbreak over his passing.
Cast members react to Dustin Diamond’s death
“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,” Gosselaar wrote.
“I’m grateful to have gotten to create with Dustin when we were at the beginning of our dreams coming true. I will hold onto those sweet memories and the laughs we shared. He was a truly gifted talent. Rest In Peace,” Elizabeth Berkley stated.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of my old co-star @realdustindiamond passing. Life is extremely fragile and it’s something we should never take for granted. God speed Dustin,” Thiessen commented.
“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…” Lopez said.
Currently, there is no news about when the Saved By The Bell reboot will begin filming Season 2, or when the show will premiere. However, fans are hoping that the show will honor Dustin Diamond’s death in some form.