Why is Zack Morris Not Returning in the Saved by the Bell Reboot?

Introduction to the 'Saved by the Bell' Reboot

Saved by the Bell was a beloved show during the 1990s, targeting teens and preteens with its dynamic and relatable characters. Now, three decades later, the show is making a return, aiming to engage both the original audience and a new generation of viewers.

Why Zack Morris Might Not Be Reappearing

Many fans were curious about the return of Zack Morris, the charming and intelligent character played by Mark-Paul Gosselaar, in the 2023 reboot. However, Mark-Paul Gosselaar has stated that he was not approached for the reboot, likely due to his involvement in another series, Mixed-ish. His current role as a governor on a comedy series might make it challenging to schedule additional appearances.

An Analysis of Zack's Current Appearance

The reboot casting eliminates Zack's appearance on Mixed-ish, which is significantly different from the classic 'Saved by the Bell' portrayal. This may be attributed to the makeup styling and acting techniques used in the show. Fans acknowledge that Zack in Mixed-ish does not look the part of a grown-up Zack, although they appreciate that these appearances might be misleading from a glamour perspective.

Challenges in Reboot Casting

The main challenge in casting for the reboot is finding a lead actor who embodies the essence of Zack Morris, as originally perceived by the 1990s audience. Many viewers expected a more mature and masculine actor to portray the grown-up version of Zack. The casting team is evidently leaning towards a taller, more handsome, and chiselled aesthetic, as many would have anticipated from Zack's Hollywood-fantasy version from 12 to 14 years old. However, it is important to note that the aging process does not always follow the Hollywood ideal, and some individuals may look better in their later years.

Other Original Cast Members in the Reboot

While Zack Morris may not appear in the new series, Saved by the Bell is still targeting the nostalgia of the original audience. Other members of the original cast, such as Mario Lopez from AC Slater and Elizabeth Berkley from Jessie Spano, will be present on the show. The producers have also considered Zack Morris as a character present offscreen, and may include appearances from other original cast members to tie the show to its roots.

Pros and Cons of Using the Original Cast

Utilizing the original cast in some capacity can be a significant marketing tactic. Recreating iconic moments and using recognisable faces can cater to the nostalgia of the original audience, who are now parents. It could potentially bring in their children and engage a whole new demographic. However, simply using the original cast members might not be enough to satisfy the modern audience's high expectations for character development and plot complexity.

Conclusion

The return of Save by the Bell is a significant event in the entertainment industry. The decision to not include Mark-Paul Gosselaar as Zack Morris could be a strategic move to bring in new audiences without alienating those from the past. While the original cast's presence is a nod to fan nostalgia, it remains to be seen how the reboot will receive and evolve over time.