Saved By The Bell (1989) Cast: Then and Now 2025 — The Shocking Truth After Bayside
“Saved By The Bell” turned Bayside High into a pop culture phenomenon, with its cast becoming icons of teen television. But behind the scenes, their journeys after the final bell were filled with surprises, struggles, and reinvention.
**Mario Lopez (A.C. Slater)**
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As the athletic and loyal Slater, Mario Lopez became a 90s TV star. After the show, Lopez reinvented himself as a top entertainment host and fitness entrepreneur, regularly appearing on major programs and returning for the “Saved By The Bell” revival. As of 2025, he’s 51, thriving in television and business.
**Dustin Diamond (Screech Powers)**
The quirky, genius Screech was played by Dustin Diamond, the youngest core cast member. Diamond’s post-show life was troubled by financial and legal issues, reality TV stints, and public controversy. He died in 2021 at 44 from stage 4 lung cancer, leaving a legacy as one of TV’s most memorable outsiders.
**Lark Voorhies (Lisa Turtle)**
Lisa Turtle, the fashionable and sharp-witted trendsetter, was a rare example of an empowered young Black woman on 90s TV. Lark Voorhies continued acting but later withdrew from the spotlight, revealing struggles with mental health. By 2025, at 50, she’s an advocate for mental health awareness and remains influential.
**Dennis Haskins (Principal Richard Belding)**
As Bayside’s exasperated but caring principal, Dennis Haskins became a beloved sitcom authority figure. He embraced his iconic role through conventions and TV appearances, branching into music and stage. In 2025, Haskins is 74 and still closely tied to the show’s legacy.
**Elizabeth Berkley (Jesse Spano)**
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Jesse, the fiercely intelligent activist, was brought to life by Elizabeth Berkley. After a controversial turn in “Showgirls,” she rebuilt her career through stage, TV, and women’s empowerment advocacy. Berkley, now 52, is respected for her resilience and impact.
**Tiffani Thiessen (Kelly Kapowski)**
Kelly, the heart of Bayside, became a beloved face of teen TV. Tiffani Thiessen transitioned to adult roles in “Beverly Hills 90210” and “White Collar,” and expanded into producing and hosting. In 2025, she’s 51 and remains a pop culture favorite.
**Mark-Paul Gosselaar (Zack Morris)**
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As the clever and charming Zack, Gosselaar defined 90s teen stardom. Avoiding the pitfalls of child celebrity, he built a respected career in drama (“NYPD Blue,” “Pitch”) and reprised Zack in the revival. At 51, Gosselaar is still a successful actor with a stable career.
**Other Notable Cast Members:**
– **Ed Alonzo (Max)** became a renowned magician, performing worldwide.
– **Leanna Creel (Tori Scott)** left acting for a successful career in media production.
– **Bridget Wilson (Ginger)** starred in films like “Billy Madison” and “Mortal Kombat,” later stepping back for family life.
– **Leah Remini (Stacy Carosi)** found fame in “King of Queens” and became a prominent activist.
– **Patrick Muldoon (Jeff Hunter)** built a steady career in TV and film.
– **Tori Spelling (Violet Bickerstaff)** became a 90s TV staple, later branching into reality TV and writing.
Some cast members, like Dustin Diamond and Pamela Kosh (Miss Simpson), have passed away, while others, such as Dennis Haskins and Patrick Thomas O’Brien (Mr. Dewey), continue to work in entertainment.
The real story after Bayside is one of reinvention, setbacks, and enduring legacies. These actors lived through fame, adversity, and change, but their impact on pop culture remains timeless. Which cast member’s journey surprised you most?
