EMMERDALE fans are about to say a heartbreaking goodbye to one of the show’s most beloved characters after the actor who played him passed away in December 2023.
Soap bosses previously revealed that they would put Zak Dingle to rest on screen after Steve Halliwell’s death.
The sad storyline began to unfold when Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) decided to leave the village and visit his uncle Zak in Scotland.
He made the trip after receiving a concerning phone call from his daughter Debbie, who lives with Zak.
During Wednesday’s episode, Cain revealed to Chas and Belle Dingle that Zak’s health had taken a worrying turn.
After hearing the news Belle wanted to visit her dad herself, but Cain downplayed the situation, reassuring them that he would only be gone for a few days.
Steve Halliwell brought the character of Zak to life in 1994.
Zak appeared in June 2023 for the final time before Steve took a break owing to health issues before ultimately dying in December at the age of 77.
A statement released by his family at the time said: “He was making us laugh to the end.
“The most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for, family was everything to him.
“We would like to thank the wonderful staff at St James Hospital and the Wheatfield Hospice for their love and kindness in his final days. He didn’t want sadness, just to rejoice in a life well lived.”
Emmerdale bosses previously confirmed that his character would be laid to rest in a “hugely fitting” tribute this year.
The soap’s producer Sophie Roper shared: “The Dingles have been at the heart of our show for 30 years now and will continue to be so.
“And as many of you will know, of course, we lost Steve recently and the very sad passing of Steve.
“So we’re going to be marking Zak’s passing, iconic Zak Dingle character, in the coming months with a Dingle funeral.”
