Emmerdale viewers were left reaching for the tissues after the show paid tribute to the legendary Zak Dingle.
The iconic character, brought to life by the late Steve Halliwell, first graced our screens in 1994 and quickly became a fan favourite as the patriarch of the notorious Dingle family.
Tragically, Steve Halliwell passed away at 77 last year following a series of health issues. His family released a statement saying: “He went to sleep, peacefully with his loved ones around him.”
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Steve was an integral part of the Emmerdale cast for decades until his appearances dwindled last year, with Zak spending most of his time in Scotland with family members.
(Image: ITV)
Currently, in the village, Zak’s daughter Belle Dingle (played by Eden Taylor-Draper) is embroiled in a harrowing domestic abuse plot with her new hubby Tom (portrayed by James Chase), reports the Mirror.
Belle and Tom reignited their old flame and swiftly marched down the aisle, but it wasn’t long before Tom’s true colours showed, subjecting Belle to emotional torment.
Initially, he nitpicked her decisions and scoffed at her wedding gown, but Tom’s behaviour has spiralled into full-blown coercive control. The storyline took a dark turn recently when he physically assaulted Belle, and it seems the worst is yet to come.
(Image: No credit)
On Monday’s (June 24) episode, Belle had a visit from her mental health care coordinator while Tom was away at work. After revealing concerns about her relationship with Tom, Belle was advised to leave him.
Initially uncertain, she decided to go ahead and pack her belongings. She then rang her sister, Debbie Dingle, in Scotland, showing gratitude for arranging her train tickets to visit her and their father.
(Image: ITV)
While discussing their dear dad, she requested her sister to keep her arrival a surprise for him, stating: ” And can you not tell dad I’m coming? I want to surprise him.”
Zak became a hot topic among the fans immediately after this mention. A fan took to X, previously known as Twitter, to share: “Belle heading off to see Zak,” along with a broken heart emoji. Another chimed in saying: “The Zak mention, I can’t.”
Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
