Actor Dustin Diamond, best known for his role as Samuel “Screech” Powers throughout the Saved by the Bell franchise, has begun chemotherapy for stage 4 small cell carcinoma that occurs in the lungs and other parts of the body.
The 44-year-old musician is continuing to seek treatment for stage 4 lung cancer.
On Thursday, a representative for Diamond confirmed to PEOPLE that the actor had started chemotherapy for stage 4 small cell carcinoma, with the second round of chemo being scheduled and Diamond will also begin physical therapy in the near future, per NBC News.
Diamond’s rep Roger Paul told the outlet, “Dustin is looking forward to spending more time with his girlfriend, playing his bass guitar/video games, as well as making videos for his fans on social media,” adding that the musician is “in a lot of pain.”
His team also announced the diagnosis in a statement shared on his Facebook page, which read, “At this time we can confirm that Dustin does have cancer. Dustin will disclose more information once it is available and a plan moving forward is made.”
“We ask everyone to respect Dustin’s privacy during this difficult time,” his team added. “All positivity and prayers are appreciated.”
Earlier this month, a rep for Diamond told PEOPLE, “Dustin is in the hospital and the medical teams are doing tests to find out more. Everyone is hoping for a speedy recovery.”
After the news of Diamond’s diagnosis broke, his friends have shown their support.
Mario Lopez wrote, “God Bless & Prayers Up! I connected with Dustin earlier this evening and although the news of his diagnosis is heartbreaking, we remain positive that he’ll overcome this. Praying for him & his family and for a speedy recovery. God Bless.”
Lark Voorhies wrote in the caption, “I’d like to take the time to send special love and special best wishes to Dustin Diamond, who is one of my dearest friends.”
“Dustin, all the many in your close circle who know you to be the great person that you are, are truly pulling for you and praying for the best outcome,” she added. The article appeared on PEOPLE.
