After Dustin Diamond passed away from cancer earlier this year, Mario Lopez wanted to dedicate a memorable tribute to his former Saved by the Bell cast member. Diamond played the role of beloved Samuel "Screech" Powers in the original television sitcom.
In an exclusive interview with Hollywood Life, Lopez revealed that a tribute is currently “in the works” to appear in the Saved by the Bell reboot series on Peacock. The show was recently renewed for a second season.
“I’ve always been cool with him and it would be nice to do a little something to honor him and I think that’s in the works,” he said.
As of right now, there’s not much information regarding the layout of the tribute. However, Lopez did ensure fans that potential ideas are being discussed among the cast and crew.
“There’s been different creative ideas floating around,” he explained. “I don’t want to throw a monkey wrench in any of them. As long as it’s done in a tasteful, cool way, I’m good with it.”
Lopez, who reprises his role as A.C. Slater in the reboot series, shared that the second season will resume filming in the summer.
“I believe we’re picking back up around June. I’m looking forward to it. It was really nice to see that it was well-received, and we got really nice reviews and it did well so I’m hoping that’s the same for this next go around,” he said.
When Diamond lost his battle with cancer, Lopez gave an emotional statement about his former co-star on Access Hollywood.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce my friend and Saved by the Bell costar Dustin Diamond passed away this morning at the age of 44 from stage IV cancer,” he revealed to the outlet.
“He was like a little brother to me, we always remained in contact over the years. I actually just spoke with him a couple of weeks ago after he got his diagnosis," Lopez continued. "Even then, he was full of energy and he was so optimistic. Life is just so fragile and not to be taken for granted. Our prayers are with Dustin’s family and his friends.”
Lopez also gave a heartfelt tribute to the late actor on his official Instagram page:
Many other cast members gave their condolences to Diamond on social media.
Mark-Paul Gosselaar, who played Screech’s best friend Zack Morris, posted on Twitter, “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.”
Lark Voorhies, who portrayed Screech’s crush Lisa Turtle, also paid tribute to her late co-star. “Words cannot express the grief that I am feeling right now," she said in an Instagram post. "Dustin and I had a warm and special friendship, he was a caring gentleman, and my memories of him will always be cherished,”
“I am so very sorry he is gone. But it’s exceptionally sad for his close loved ones who have to deal with his tragic death and their own great loss,” she added. “My heart goes out to them at this trying time.”
A release date for Season 2 has yet to be announced for the Saved by the Bell reboot series. For now, the first season of the show is available to stream on Peacock.