Dead Television: Saved By The Bell: The College Years

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January 17, 2025
Dave Cameron



On the night of May 22, 1993, fans of “Saved by the Bell” experienced a bittersweet farewell as the Saturday morning sitcom aired its series finale. But the story was far from over. That same evening, NBC unveiled “Saved by the Bell: The College Years”, a fresh chapter following Zack, Slater, Screech, and later, Kelly as they navigated the next big adventure: college. Though it moved to its regular Tuesday night slot later that fall, the series didn’t quite resonate with audiences the way its predecessor had. It was canceled after just one season and has since been largely overshadowed by the original series’ enduring charm and nostalgia.

But to me, “The College Years” is more than a forgotten spin-off, it’s the most underrated installment in the “Saved by the Bell” franchise. Beneath the surface of its short run lies a show that dared to grow up, balancing the quirky humor fans loved with more mature themes befitting its college setting. In this post, I’ll revisit the highs, lows, and hidden gems of “The College Years” and explore why it deserves a second look from fans of the franchise.

PLOT

The series begins with its (test) Pilot, Zack (who’s grew his hair out), Slater, and Screech are now students at California University (a fictional take on California State University). We also learn that they share a dorm with three young women, Alex Tabor (amateur actress), Leslie Burke (a cheap knock-off of Jessie), and Danielle Marks (who only appears in this episode). After learning that, Zack is excited for what college has to offer… Until he meets the dorm advisor and former football player (both in fiction and real-life), Mike Rogers. He starts off very strict in the pilot, showing he expects his two rules (no parties, and no beer) adhered to. But Zack, being Zack breaks the first rule, and it’s made worst when a party-goer brings his own beer, then later when Zack and the others are trying to get students to fill out a questionnaire for the Psychology department, and Zack sets up a scam involving a trip to Hawaii, Mike reminds him he’s not in high school, and if he offers a prize he needs to back-up the claim.

Slater has his own problems, he used to be the big man of campus back at Bayside, but now he’s getting pinned down by the other wrestlers much to his embarrassment. He also works at the student union, Zack joins him to pay for the Hawaii scam (but just in this episode). And screech is still Screech. The pilot also sets up the possibility of Zack getting together with Leslie, but this among other things, is dropped once the season officially starts.

The series officially starts with “Guess Who’s coming to College”, where Kelly officially joins the guys at Cal-U. We learn that Danielle transferred out of the dorms or Cal-U, it was never made clear why. In the episode Zack still hopes to get together with Leslie, but with Kelly back in his life, things get complicated, though (again), it’s dropped as the writers want to as the kids like to say, make Zack and Kelly endgame. We also learn Mike is also a student at Cal-U, taking extra courses to get his master’s degree in psychology, while that’s cool, his serious-minded attitude from the Pilot was downgraded, and has him being a slightly goofy, unable to talk to women (even though he’s a retired NFL player) and being the straight man to Screech

All his serious mindedness, went into a new character that was introduced near the end, Dean Susan McMann, who’s basically a no-nonsensed version of Mr. Belding, she even scares dogs. But most importantly, she HATES Zack with a passion. There’s one other character I need to address, but we’ll get to him later, right now I want to highlight some of my favorite episodes.

“Slater’s War,” a thoughtful exploration of identity and self-discovery. In this episode, A.C. Slater connects with a fellow student, a young woman who helps him uncover a part of himself he had never fully embraced: his Chicano heritage. What follows is an “ethnic awakening” for Slater, as he begins to appreciate the richness of his cultural background and the importance of standing up for issues that affect his community.

What makes “Slater’s War” so memorable is how it successfully tackles a complex subject with a level of depth that feels genuine. It’s a more refined version of what the parent series tried to do in “Running Zack,” an episode where Zack grapples with his supposed Native American ancestry. While “Running Zack” has not aged well due to its dated approach and insensitivity, “Slater’s War” feels more grounded and authentic, allowing Slater to undergo meaningful character growth without veering into caricature or awkward stereotypes.

Another great episode is “The Homecoming,” an episode that blends humor, drama, and character development with a touch of classic SBTB charm. The story revolves around Johnny Walters, a charismatic former NFL player and Cal-U alumnus who visits campus for Homecoming and rekindles his friendship with Mike. At first, Zack sees Johnny as a dumb upstart who got lucky, but later sees him as a golden opportunity, eager to capitalize on his business connections. However, Mike warns Zack that Johnny isn’t as reliable as he seems, a warning Zack initially dismisses as jealousy.

The tension reaches a boiling point when Zack discovers Johnny has callously ditched Kelly for another woman, treating her like an afterthought. This realization hits hard, forcing Zack to reevaluate his priorities and ultimately stand up to Johnny, severing their connection. It’s a strong character moment for Zack, who shows growth by recognizing the importance of loyalty and integrity over superficial gains. Still, there’s a sense that Zack could’ve used Johnny’s behavior against him more directly, blackmailed him into getting his connections, I’m mean this is Zack Morris were talking about, he could’ve conned his parents into giving him better job opportunities.

The episode also delivers a significant development for Slater and Alex, whose playful chemistry finally blossoms into a romantic relationship. Their dynamic provides a lighter counterbalance to the main storyline, showing how The College Years could effectively weave personal milestones with moral lessons.

“Screech Love” is a standout episode that offers a rare but welcome focus on Screech, showcasing his growth and resilience. The episode’s central conflict revolves around Zack’s attempt to woo Linda, a talented tennis star, by roping Screech into tutoring her. However, Linda ends up taking a liking to Screech instead, creating a rift between the longtime friends.

What makes this episode memorable is how it flips the dynamic between Zack and Screech. For once, Screech isn’t just a pawn in one of Zack’s schemes, he becomes the center of attention, and his feelings matter. When Zack dismissively laughs at the idea of Linda and Screech dating, it leads to a powerful moment where Screech finally stands up to his friend. It’s a refreshing shift, as Screech’s assertiveness highlights his own growth and self-worth.

Mike also plays a key role in helping Screech take a step forward, using reverse psychology to push him out of his dorm and give him the courage to ask Linda out. It’s a fun and clever subplot that adds layers to Screech’s journey, showing how his support system can help him realize his potential.

“Screech Love” is not just a great episode for Screech, it’s a testament to the evolving dynamics among the characters in “The College Years”. By letting Screech shine and giving him a win, the show offers a heartfelt reminder that even the quirkiest underdog deserves their moment in the spotlight.

“A Thanksgiving Story” is a quintessential episode, packed with heartwarming moments, unexpected mishaps, and a nostalgic parade of NBC stars. The episode starts with the gang making plans to spend Thanksgiving with their families: Slater takes Alex to meet his parents, while the others set off for their own reunions. But in true sitcom fashion, car trouble derails their plans, leaving everyone stranded at Cal-U.

Back on campus, Mike is hosting a Thanksgiving dinner for underprivileged children (one of whom is Yeah-Yeah from “The Sandlot”). As the gang steps in to help, their mishaps lead to a chaotic dinner that’s broadcasted live on NBC with Marv Albert reporting, catching the attention of celebrities who start arriving in droves to lend a hand.

The episode transforms into a cavalcade of 1990s NBC stars. Jonathan Brandis of “SeaQuest DSV”, Marsha Warfield from the original ‘Night Court”, Jenna Von Oy from “Blossom”, and Brian Austin Green, who not only starred in “Beverly Hills, 90210” but also appeared in the pilot of “Good Morning, Miss Bliss”, all make appearances. Even Mr. Belding drops by, further connecting the spin-off to its roots. For fans, this star-studded event feels like a Thanksgiving gift in itself, blending nostalgia and humor in a way only “Saved by the Bell” could pull off.

“Dr. Kelly” is an engaging episode that places Kelly front and center as she grapples with her future ambitions. Inspired to pursue a career in medicine, Kelly begins to doubt herself after Zack suggests she consider a “smaller” goal, leading her to take a high-paying job at a Hooters-like bar. While the job seems like an easy way to make money, Kelly starts to adopt a more callous attitude, prioritizing her earnings over her education and friendships.

The turning point comes when Zack and the others (but mostly Zack) confront her about the person she’s becoming, challenging her to reconsider her choices. The heartfelt intervention underscores the show’s knack for tackling relatable struggles with sincerity. Kelly ultimately realizes that her ambitions are worth pursuing, even if the road is tough, and she quits her job to refocus on her dream of becoming a doctor. The episode offers a strong message about staying true to oneself and not letting short-term gains derail long-term goals.

Meanwhile, the B-plot features a lighthearted yet inspiring story as Mike decides to try out for the San Francisco 49ers, with the help of Zack, Slater, and Screech. This subplot gives us one of the episode’s highlights: a classic training montage filled with camaraderie and humor, as the gang rallies around Mike to prepare him for the tryout. Screech, true to form, adds his own layer of comic relief by falling for a waitress at Kelly’s bar, only to discover she was merely pretending to reciprocate his feelings.

“A Question of Ethics” is a standout episode of the series that cleverly blends humor with a thought-provoking moral dilemma. The main plot centers around the gang (sans Kelly and Screech) taking an Ethics class taught by the no-nonsense Professor Arthur Hemmings, played brilliantly by Robert Guillaume. Hemmings is essentially Benson, but as a professor: witty, sarcastic, and always ready to deliver a biting quip. His presence adds gravitas and sharp humor to the episode, making him a perfect foil for Zack and his schemes.

When Zack finds a copy of Hemmings’ midterm, the group faces a moral crossroads: should they use it to study or turn it in? The debates that follow provide insight into each character’s values and how they handle ethical gray areas. Zack, true to form, initially pushes the boundaries, but the episode’s resolution showcases the growth he’s capable of when confronted with real consequences.

Meanwhile, the B-plot brings a lighter, more comedic tone, as Screech steps in to manage the cafeteria while Slater takes a break. Predictably, chaos ensues as Screech’s overzealous ideas wreak havoc. With some help from Kelly and Mike, he briefly enjoys a promotion to manager, though his tenure is hilariously short-lived. This subplot provides a nice counterbalance to the heavier themes of the main storyline and reminds viewers of the show’s signature blend of slapstick and heart.

“A Question of Ethics” shines as a microcosm of what the show did best: tackling more mature themes while staying true to the humor and charm that made SBTB so beloved. Robert Guillaume’s performance is a highlight, elevating the episode and leaving me and other fans wishing Professor Hemmings had stuck around for more lessons in wit and wisdom.

I’m just gonna lump these last three episodes together as they delivers some of the series’ most emotional and pivotal moments, skillfully blending humor, heart, and closure for its beloved characters.

In “Love and Death,” the gang faces an unexpected and somber challenge: the passing of their favorite professor, Prof. Rich. This profound loss prompts each character to cope in their own unique way. For Zack, the tragedy becomes a wake-up call, pushing him toward a more risk-filled approach to life. While his stunts initially seem reckless, they ultimately lead to a heartfelt turning point as Kelly confesses her love for Zack. Their reunion is a beautifully earned moment, bringing their on-again, off-again relationship back to center stage and setting the stage for the series finale.

The two-part finale, “Marry Me” and “Wedding Plans,” takes the series to its most defining moments. Zack’s decision to either stop or join Kelly on Cal-U’s Semester at Sea program pushes him to make a bold and romantic gesture: proposing to her. This episode encapsulates Zack’s growth from the scheming, self-centered teen of Bayside High to a young man who’s ready to commit to the love of his life. Kelly’s acceptance cements their place as one of TV’s most iconic couples.

“Wedding Plans” shifts focus to the practical (and chaotic) side of their engagement, as Zack and Kelly grapple with their future while dealing with the opinions of their friends. Slater initially expresses concerns about the marriage, but comes around at the end and just in time, as Screech, desperately tries to play a role in Zack’s big day, planing a bachelor party that goes hilariously off the rails. Meanwhile, Lisa makes a triumphant return, eager to claim the role of Maid of Honor—but she faces fierce competition from Leslie and Alex, sparking a lighthearted rivalry that adds levity to the proceedings. The finale seamlessly transitions into the movie “Wedding in Las Vegas”.

Before we look at Wedding in Las Vegas, its time to finally address, Professor Jeremiah Lasky is one of the more intriguing additions to “The College Years”. With his laid-back demeanor, sharp wit, and unconventional teaching methods, Lasky feels like an older, more academic version of Zack Morris, someone who knows the tricks because he’s pulled them himself. His dynamic with Zack is particularly fun to watch, as it pits two schemers from different eras against each other, creating a mentor-student relationship that’s equal parts adversarial and comedic.

“Zack, Lies, and Videotape” serves as Lasky’s introduction, and it quickly establishes his clever, no-nonsense personality. From the moment he poses as a student and cons Zack out of $20 by selling fake midterms, it’s clear Lasky is not your typical professor. His antics set the tone for his teaching philosophy: challenging students to think critically and avoid taking shortcuts.

When Zack retaliates after one too many insults by badmouthing his class, Lasky turns it into an opportunity, offering Zack a deal: conduct a field study on what women in the 1990s want in men. If Zack succeeds, he’ll earn a B and permission to skip class for the rest of the semester. True to form, Zack rises to the challenge, putting in the effort and impressing Lasky enough to earn a pass on their deal.

What makes the episode even more amusing is Zack’s next move. Instead of taking the easy route and coasting on his B, he decides he wants to earn an A, opting to stay in Lasky’s class. This twist speaks to Zack’s evolving character, while he’s still a slacker at heart, moments like this show he’s capable of pushing himself when the stakes are high or when he feels truly engaged.

Zack’s second encounter with Lasky in “Professor Zack” starts with him slipping back into old habits: cramming for an English test instead of focusing on Lasky’s lecture. When called out, Zack tries to blur the line between professor and friend, but Lasky firmly reminds him of their roles. This dynamic shifts when Zack impersonates Lasky to woo Jennifer, a young woman who mistakes him for the professor.

Zack’s scheme backfires spectacularly when Jennifer is revealed to be the chancellor’s daughter. Her breakup with Zack puts Lasky’s career in jeopardy, as the school has strict rules against faculty dating students (remember this). The crisis resolves when Jennifer doesn’t recognize the real Lasky, and Zack owns up to the entire ruse. In the aftermath, Zack and Lasky reconcile, officially cementing their friendship.

Lasky’s next major storyline weaves him into a romantic subplot with Kelly, adding emotional stakes and drama. “Teacher’s Pet” begins innocently enough, with Lasky helping Kelly with her term paper. When Kelly visits his office, she sees him playing with his daughter and offers to babysit, creating a bond between them. Over the course of the episode, Kelly starts falling for Lasky, and he begins to reciprocate.

Zack, planning to ask Kelly to be his girlfriend (again), is devastated when he discovers her feelings for Lasky. In “Kelly and the Professor”, Zack has a rare moment of emotional vulnerability, and calls out Lasky in front of the class. While Lasky shows interest in dating Kelly, he is clearly uncomfortable with the situation, especially under the scrutiny of students and colleagues.

The tension reaches its peak at Kelly’s sorority costume ball. In a twist worthy of a primetime teen soap opera, Zack and Lasky both wear Zorro costumes. Zack kisses Kelly, which causes Lasky to rethink their relationship. Ultimately, Lasky decides to break things off with Kelly after seeing her with Zack, admitting he felt nothing and recognizing that their connection wasn’t meant to last. This bittersweet resolution underscores Lasky’s maturity and respect for Kelly, as well as his understanding of the complexities of relationships.

Zack, on the other hand, realizes that he’s still deeply in love with Kelly but respects her need for time to heal. These episodes are pivotal in the series, as they explore themes of love, maturity, and the complicated dynamics between friends, mentors, and romantic interests. Lasky’s involvement brings a fresh layer of drama, pushing both Zack and Kelly to grow as individuals before their eventual reconciliation.

In “Rave On,” Kelly is slowly moving past her feelings for Lasky, but they resurface when he covers for Zack after Dean McMann discovered a rave in his classroom. Lasky’s willingness to help Zack avoid serious consequences demonstrates his commitment to his students, even when they put him in difficult positions. His actions reignite Kelly’s affection for him, creating lingering tension between her and Zack. This episode hints at the unresolved feelings between Kelly and Lasky while also highlighting Lasky’s role as both a mentor and a flawed, relatable figure.

“Bedside Manner” dives deeper into the complicated relationship between Kelly and Lasky. Set in the student health center, the episode brings their emotional turmoil to the forefront. Lasky wrestles with his lingering feelings for Kelly, but he ultimately tells her that their love can never be, recognizing the ethical and practical challenges of their dynamic.

Kelly’s response to Lasky’s rejection is intended to be empowering—standing up for herself and calling out his lack of commitment, but it comes across as more confrontational than triumphant. While the moment is meant to showcase Kelly asserting her self-worth, her frustration reads as petulant, feeling less like Kelly and more like Valerie. Despite the misstep in tone, the episode closes the door on Kelly and Lasky’s romantic subplot, allowing her to fully focus on her future with Zack.

Lasky’s final appearances are very brief, and comes in the two-part finale, in “Marry Me” Zack tries to get him to write him a letter of recommendation for the Semester at Sea program, but refuses as he already recommended Screech, and wouldn’t have due to Zack sleeping in class. Finally, in “Wedding Plans” (where he only appears in the blooper reel during the credits), he learns of Zack and Kelly’s impending wedding, his reaction, a classic spit-take (and judging from the bloopers, it either took several takes to get it right, or they replayed the scene in a loop) it’s both comedic and telling. It’s a fitting capstone for his character, showing a mix of shock, disbelief, and perhaps a tinge of wistfulness as he processes how far his former students have come.

While Lasky’s arc doesn’t fully resolve every thread, his journey serves as a meaningful catalyst for both Zack and Kelly. His presence challenges them to grow individually and together, ultimately clearing the way for their reconciliation and eventual marriage. Lasky’s mix of wit, charm, and occasional awkwardness made him a standout character in The College Years, and his interactions with Zack and Kelly added depth to the series’ themes of love, ambition, and personal growth.

“Wedding in Las Vegas” serves as the perfect conclusion to “The College Years” and the original era of the series, encapsulating everything fans loved about the franchise while delivering heartfelt closure to Zack and Kelly’s iconic love story. This feature-length finale takes the gang on a wild ride, blending comedy, romance, and a touch of drama in classic SBTB fashion.

The plot kicks off with Zack and Kelly deciding to elope in Las Vegas after realizing their families are opposed to their marriage. From there, the film takes the ensemble cast on a series of misadventures, giving each character a moment to shine. In true Zack Morris fashion, he loses their wedding fund while trying to bail himself and the guys out of jail. To recover the money, he and Screech hilariously pose as male escorts. As expected, this leads to comedic chaos, especially when Screech ends up stuck with one of their “clients,” in one of his more outlandish storylines. Lisa gets a touching subplot as she falls for a drifter who also works at the Stardust Hotel. This unexpected romance adds depth to her character and offers levity amid the hijinks. Because no Vegas adventure would be complete without some danger, the gang crosses paths with the mob. This subplot is pure SBTB, outrageous but entertaining, with plenty of opportunities for humor and camaraderie.

Despite the chaos, the film delivers the emotional core fans were waiting for: Zack and Kelly’s wedding. Initially planned as a cheap, last-minute chapel ceremony, the event transforms into something truly special, thanks to the support of their friends, their family (eventually) and the lessons learned along the way. Their vows are a perfect reflection of their journey as a couple, and the ceremony serves as a beautiful capstone to their love story.

Elizabeth Berkley’s cameo as Jessie Spano makes this movie even more poignant. Seeing the entire original gang reunited, even briefly, adds emotional weight to the movie, especially after Dustin Diamond’s untimely passing in 2021.

“Wedding in Las Vegas” is not just a fitting end to The College Years, it’s a heartfelt farewell to the original SBTB era. Balancing humor, sentimentality, and a touch of nostalgia, it ensures that the gang goes out on a high note, leaving fans with memories as vibrant and enduring as the neon lights of Vegas itself.

REVIEW

“Saved by the Bell: The College Years” was an ambitious attempt to grow up with its audience, transitioning from the carefree antics of high school to the more complex and mature world of college. While the show didn’t always succeed in balancing its lofty goals with its established tone, it remains an underrated gem in the franchise, offering new characters and stories that added depth to the beloved STBB universe.

One of the standout qualities of “The College Years” was its willingness to tackle more mature storylines. By addressing themes like identity, ethics, and even grief, the show aimed to appeal to fans who had grown up watching the original series and were now engaging with primetime dramas. While the show retained its trademark humor and lightheartedness, it also delved into weightier topics that gave the characters and their world a bit more dimension. The introduction of new characters helped this evolution immensely:

Mike, played by Bob Golic, was a standout addition to the series. As the dorm’s resident adviser, he stepped into the void left by Mr. Belding, providing both discipline and mentorship to the group. His initial characterization as a tough, no-nonsense ex-football player softened after the pilot, and he transitioned into the straight man to Screech’s antics. Mike’s role reminded me of Mr. Turner from Boy Meets World, a cool, relatable authority figure who still maintained a sense of maturity. Alex was also great Kirsten Warren’s portrayal of Alex brought much-needed humor to the series. Her over-the-top acting style and dramatic flair gave Alex a unique personality, blending hamminess with genuine humor. While she could have easily become a caricature, Warren’s performance kept her character endearing and grounded. Holland Taylor’s sporadic appearances as Dean McMann were a highlight of the later episodes. Her sharp wit, biting humor, and no-nonsense demeanor added a refreshing dynamic to the show, making her a memorable addition despite limited screen time.

As much as “The College Years” aspired to grow up with its audience, it sometimes struggled to fully commit to its more mature themes The show introduced themes that could have led to deeper storytelling but often handled them with a sanitized, PG approach. For example, the writers avoided tackling quintessential college issues like drinking, hazing, or academic pressure in a meaningful way.

Leslie Burke, one of the new main characters, never fully clicked. She came across as a privileged, less compelling clone of Jessie Spano, lacking the same depth and passion that defined Jessie in the original series. Her character often felt like an afterthought, and once Kelly rejoined the cast, Leslie’s role became even more inconsequential. Kelly Kapowski’s reintroduction to the series was an exciting moment for fans, but after the initial buzz, her character struggled to find her footing. The writers seemed unsure of what to do with her, and she often blended into the background. Her absence in “Wedding in Las Vegas”, a finale that reunited most of the original cast, underscored her diminished presence. While the rest of the cast explored new dimensions of their characters, Screech remained stuck in his role as comic relief. His potential for growth, particularly through his budding relationship with Linda in “Screech Love,” was left unexplored, making his character feel stagnant compared to the rest of the ensemble.

While Zack and Kelly’s relationship is a cornerstone of the franchise, “The College Years” leaned too heavily on their love story. The love triangle involving Zack, Kelly, and Professor Lasky dominated the last half of the series, sidelining opportunities to explore other dynamics or more diverse storylines.

Professor Hemmings, introduced as a strong, and witty authority figure, could have been a recurring presence to add depth to the academic setting. His absence after one episode was a missed opportunity. Similarly, Linda and other side characters deserved more attention to enrich the college experience.

Overall, “Saved by the Bell: The College Years” deserves credit for its ambition and the risks it took to grow with its audience. The new characters, particularly Mike, Alex, and Dean McMann, brought fresh energy to the show, and the mature themes showed a desire to evolve the franchise. However, the execution often fell short, with uneven character development, missed opportunities for meaningful storylines, and an over-reliance on familiar tropes.

Despite its flaws, the show remains a fascinating and nostalgic chapter in the SBTB legacy. Its heart was in the right place, and it succeeded in providing closure for Zack and Kelly’s iconic romance while offering fans a glimpse into the challenges of growing up and moving forward. With its blend of humor, heart, and occasional missteps, “The College Years” remains an underrated installment in the franchise, deserving of a second look from fans who may have overlooked it the first time around.

RANK: 3 out of 5