Dustin Diamond, who was best known for playing Samuel “Screech” Powers on the beloved sitcom “Saved By The Bell,” passed away on Monday morning after a battle with lung cancer. He was 44 years-old.

Variety reported that Diamond had only just been diagnosed with cancer three weeks before his death.

“In that time, it managed to spread rapidly throughout his system; the only mercy it exhibited was its sharp and swift execution,” Diamond’s reps said. “Dustin did not suffer. He did not have to lie submerged in pain. For that, we are grateful.”

Born in 1977, Diamond got his big break in 1988, when he was cast as Screech in the sitcom “Good Morning, Miss Bliss.” This show would later become “Saved By The Bell,” which Diamond acted in until 1992.

Hours before Diamond’s death, his friend Dan Block told The Sun that the actor was not doing well.

“We do not have any specific timelines, but we know that Dustin needs a miracle to overcome the small cell carcinoma he’s been diagnosed with,” Block said. “He was told weeks to 5 months is the average but a small percentage of people have lived one to two years with it being stage 4. We are hoping that he is one of the people to outlive the odds and that we get as much time with him as possible.”

He went on to reveal the two things that Diamond wanted to do before his death.

“There are two things Dustin asked for….the ability to talk to Justin Chancellor about music and to be able to visit Disney World to see Star Wars Galaxy Edge,” Block explained. “Dustin was learning to play several Tool songs and wanted to start a Tool tribute band. He was in the process of starting the band before being diagnosed with cancer. He would play the song and play along with his bass while watching YouTube videos.”

“It would be amazing if Justin saw this article and could reach out – it would be granting one of Dustin’s dying wishes and we would greatly appreciate it,” he continued. “He’s also a huge Star Wars fan – so we’re hoping we can find a way to arrange that.”

Block also encouraged fans to send letters to Diamond to show their support.

“We are accepting letters and cards from fans and then we’ll take them down to Dustin. We have a team ready,” he said. “I know a lot of people do love Dustin, but he doesn’t want to look online at the moment because he sees all the negative comments. I think it would mean a lot to him and really help him at this time.”

Rest in peace, Dustin Diamond.

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