NEVER FORGOTTEN
Emmerdale viewers in tears as soap airs tribute to Zac Dingle actor Steve Halliwell
"The most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for, family was everything to him."
EMMERDALE fans were in tears after the soap aired a tribute to Zac Dingle actor, Steve Halliwell.
The beloved actor played the head of the Dingle family, Zak Dingle, in the popular ITV soap for 29 years.
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Steve's family confirmed on Friday that he had passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
Tonight's episode started with a heartfelt tribute by the ITV voiceover, dedicating the latest visit to the Dales to him.
He said: "Tonight's episode of Emmerdale is dedicated to Steve Halliwell, who played Zak Dingle."
As the credits rolled at the end of the episode, the show delivered a touching tribute.
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A message appeared on the screen, saying: "Dedicated to Steve Halliwell."
The episode concluded with a poignant image of Steve, the actor who portrayed Zak, flashing on the screen, honoring his memory after his passing.
Emmerdale viewers were left in tears at the heartfelt tribute.
Taking to X/Twitter, one fan wrote: "That was so heartbreaking to watch honestly!"
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A second added: "RIP, Steve! You'll never be forgotten. I'm actually crying."
A third penned: "Rest in Peace, Steve, sending love to his family."
At the time, Emmerdale said of Steve's passing: "It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that Emmerdale can confirm that Steve Halliwell, our beloved Zak Dingle, has peacefully passed away.
"All our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones through this very difficult time, and we’d request that their privacy is respected as they grieve for his loss.
"Steve will forever be synonymous with Emmerdale. The proud defender and head of the Dingle family.
"Heart and humour in all he did, it has been and always will be impossible not to smile when you think of him."
Steve's family shared the heartbreaking news today, stating: "He was making us laugh to the end.
"The most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for, family was everything to him.
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"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."
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