October 11th 2024.
As we look at what's coming up next, we are hit with an absolutely devastating moment. Cain Dingle, played by the late Steve Halliwell, discovers that his dad Zak has passed away in Emmerdale. It's been a few days since Cain left the village to visit Zak and his sister Debbie in Scotland. We knew that Zak wasn't in the best health, but Debbie contacted Cain and revealed that his condition had taken a turn for the worse.
Before leaving, Cain was reassured by his brother Mackenzie that their loved ones, like Moira and Belle, would be well taken care of while he was away. But on Monday, Cain returns home earlier than expected. As he walks through the door, Moira receives a call from the hospital informing her that there is an available slot for her brain tumour surgery. It's a bittersweet moment as Cain is relieved for his wife, but also grieving the loss of his father.
After arriving home, Cain heads upstairs for a shower while Moira takes a call from Debbie. That's when she learns the heartbreaking news that Zak had passed away about an hour ago. Actor Steve Halliwell had sadly passed away in real life last December. Moira relays the news to Cain, who is completely shocked despite knowing that Zak was ill. Debbie tells them that Zak had a smile on his face when he passed away, as he had just had the "best morning ever" before nodding off.
Cain now has the difficult task of informing the rest of the Dingle family about Zak's passing. He visits each of them, spending time reminiscing about their beloved father. As the villagers gather on Main Street to say goodbye to Sam and Cain as they leave for Scotland to bring Zak home, there is a sense of nostalgia and poignancy in the air.
The funeral takes place soon after, with the Dingle family completely stunned when a long-lost relative appears at the graveside. Everyone is left wondering who it could be. Actor Jeff Hordley, who plays Cain, shares that the funeral is a quintessential Dingle affair, with all the quirky and heartfelt moments that we have come to love from this family.
The cast of Emmerdale also paid tribute to both Steve Halliwell and his character Zak Dingle. They reminisced about their time working with him and how he brought joy and laughter to the set every day. They also shared that the funeral episode was a special one, as it was directed by someone who had worked with Steve and Zak since the very beginning of their time on the show.
Actress Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, shares that working with Steve was like being in nursery every day, with his infectious humor and positivity. Actress Lucy Pargeter, who plays Chas Dingle, adds that Steve was like a "head teacher" who always wanted everyone to have fun on set. Sam Dingle actor James Hooton remembers some of the sillier storylines with Zak, while Belle Dingle actress Eden Taylor-Draper shares that Steve's presence is still felt on set every day.
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