Dirty Diamond

If only Dustin Diamond had chosen the path taken by Jaleel White. Both '90s child stars were hopelessly typecast as endearing nerds thanks to the success of their respective sitcoms, Saved by the Bell and Family Matters. But while White declared that he'd rather take a bullet than play Urkel...

By Jesse Hughey

October 1, 2009

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If only Dustin Diamond had chosen the path taken by Jaleel White. Both '90s child stars were hopelessly typecast as endearing nerds thanks to the success of their respective sitcoms, Saved by the Bell and Family Matters. But while White declared that he'd rather take a bullet than play Urkel again, Diamond clung to Screech like a lifeline. White's no star now, but he's at least landed voice work and small parts. Diamond, on the other hand, hawks "Screeech" (the extra "e" to skirt copyright law) T-shirts to avoid foreclosure, acts like a jerk on whatever reality show will have him and is working on a tell-all autobiography. Somehow the living cautionary tale finds time for stand-up, which he'll smear across the upper lips of audiences Thursday through Saturday at Hyena's Dallas, 5321 E. Mockingbird Lane. Tickets ($10 to $15) and showtimes are at 214-823-5233 or hyenascomedynightclub.com.
Thu., Oct. 8; Fri., Oct. 9; Sat., Oct. 10, 2009

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