TV Icon Peter Engel Passes Away
Peter Engel, the legendary television producer best known for creating Saved by the Bell and revolutionizing 1990s teen programming, has passed away at the age of 88. Engel died on March 4, 2025, at his home in Santa Monica, California. His contributions to television have left a lasting impact on generations of viewers.
The Man Behind ‘Saved by the Bell’
Engel’s most influential work, Saved by the Bell, aired from 1989 to 1993 and became a defining show of the era. The sitcom, following the lives of high school students at Bayside High, starred Mark-Paul Gosselaar (Zack Morris), Mario Lopez (A.C. Slater), and Tiffani Thiessen (Kelly Kapowski).
Due to its overwhelming popularity, Saved by the Bell led to multiple spin-offs, including:
- Saved by the Bell: The College Years (1993–1994)
- Saved by the Bell: The New Class (1993–2000)
Engel later went on to create other successful teen-focused shows like California Dreams, Hang Time, and City Guys, further cementing his legacy in youth entertainment.
Reality TV and Later Career
After his success with scripted television, Engel expanded into reality TV, producing Last Comic Standing for NBC. The hit comedy competition show showcased emerging stand-up comedians and earned Engel a Primetime Emmy nomination in 2004.
In addition to his television work, Engel took on an academic role as the Dean of the School of Communication and the Arts at Regent University from 2003 to 2004. He also reflected on his career in his memoir, I Was Saved by the Bell: Stories of Life, Love, and Dreams That Do Come True, released in 2016 - CBN
Personal Life and Family
Engel was married three times and is survived by his children:
- Lauren Engel
- Joshua Engel
- Stephen Engel
He also leaves behind a grandson, Ezra Alhadeff.
The Lasting Impact of Peter Engel
Peter Engel’s legacy in television is undeniable. He didn’t just create teen sitcoms—he shaped youth culture for an entire generation. His ability to blend comedy with meaningful life lessons in Saved by the Bell and beyond continues to inspire television creators today.
Even after his passing, Engel’s work lives on, ensuring that future generations will continue to enjoy the timeless stories he brought to life.