**Lark Voorhies Reflects on Dustin Diamond’s Legacy as Lisa Turtle in ‘Saved by the Bell’**
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Lark Voorhies, the actress renowned for her portrayal of Lisa Turtle in the beloved teen series ‘Saved by the Bell’, has expressed heartfelt sentiments regarding her late co-star, Dustin Diamond, who famously played Samuel ‘Screech’ Powers. As she remembers the time they spent together on set, Voorhies shares both fond memories and poignant reflections on their friendship.
Voorhies began her journey as Lisa Turtle in the 1988 show ‘Good Morning, Miss Bliss’ before continuing in ‘Saved by the Bell’, which aired from 1989 until 1993. During this period, Diamond’s character, Screech, was often depicted as infatuated with Turtle, a point that provided both comedic relief and occasional tension within the show.
In a recent conversation with PEOPLE, Voorhies was asked what she might contribute to a hypothetical time capsule representing Bayside High School around 1993. With a light-hearted chuckle, she responded, “A restraining order on Screech!” This playful remark highlights the often troublesome affection that Screech held for Lisa, encapsulating the lighthearted yet complex dynamics of their on-screen relationship.
Despite the humour, Voorhies took a moment to honour her former castmates and the impact they had on her life. “I am so grateful for my experience, and I am so proud of my former castmates. I hope in the future we can come together more. And I will miss Dustin forever,” she said earnestly. This deep affection for her colleagues is a testament to the bonds formed during their formative years on the show.
Diamond’s passing in February 2021, following a brief battle with stage 4 lung cancer, profoundly affected those who knew him. Voorhies articulated her sorrow in a recent documentary, ‘Hollywood Demons: After the Bell’, where she stated, “When he died of cancer, that hurt.” She emphasised the importance of continuing to celebrate his memory and contributions to ‘Saved by the Bell’.
In sharing her thoughts, Voorhies noted that the legacy of the show and its cast, including Diamond, remains important. “Even with Dustin gone, we still carried it on—in the name of ‘Saved by the Bell’, Peter Engel, all of the writers and producers, and Dustin,” she explained. This sentiment was echoed by Diamond’s friend, Dan Block, who recalled the warmth of their relationship, recalling how Voorhies had left a thoughtful voicemail for Diamond during his final days, bringing him comfort.
Block described her heartfelt gesture, noting, “She was the only one who really reached out to him and was really heartfelt. And I know they had a special connection.” This connection speaks volumes about the camaraderie cultivated among the cast members, a bond that transcended their roles on screen.
The impact of ‘Saved by the Bell’ on pop culture cannot be understated, and as Voorhies continues to reflect on her experiences, she remains appreciative of the show’s influence and the friendships it fostered. Having shared countless hours with her co-stars, she cherishes the memories created over the years.
As fans of the show remember the laughter, lessons, and the unforgettable characters, Lark Voorhies stands as a testament to the lasting bonds formed through their shared experiences. Her memories of Dustin Diamond and the light he brought into their lives serve as a reminder of the enduring legacy of ‘Saved by the Bell’—both as a groundbreaking television series and as a cherished collection of friendships.
In a world that often moves on quickly, Voorhies’ reflections confirm that the memories they crafted together are not easily forgotten, and both she and the show’s fans continue to celebrate the impact of their time together.