Zak Dingle was a mainstay in Emmerdale for nearly 30 years following his introduction to the soap in 1994.
Originally a boxing hardman, Zak evolved into a loving family man and the nation cried with him when he discovered his wife Lisa had died in her chair following their second wedding.
Sadly, actor Steve Halliwell passed away last December and Emmerdale producers have made clear their intentions to give him an on-screen send off.
As that looks like it will soon play out, we take a look at Zak Dingle’s best moments.
Zak fought Ned Glover in one of his first scenes (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Zak’s arrival
Zak Dingle arrived in Emmerdale in October 1994 and immediately started feuding with the locals.
Previously a bare-knuckle boxer, Zak challenged Ned Glover to a bare-knuckle fistfight, which he lost.
He also started a feud with local family the McAllisters, who he blamed for his son Ben’s death a few months prior.
Zak was initially only supposed to be in a few episodes, but he made such a mark that Steve Halliwell was asked to stay on. The rest, as they say, is history.
Belle was a Christmas surprise (Credit: ITV)
Meeting Lisa and Belle
Zak met Lisa in 1996 and the two were instantly smitten. They married in 1998 and later that year at Christmas, Lisa gave birth to Belle. It was a big surprise as Lisa hadn’t even known she was pregnant.
Zak and Lisa’s relationship was far from plain sailing – who can forget Joanie taking Zak away from Lisa for a while? – but they always found their way back to each other.
Zak and Lisa remarried before her death (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale Zak Dingle: Losing Lisa
While not a good moment, we did get to witness some of Halliwell’s best acting as Zak lost his soulmate, Lisa.
In 2019, Lisa was diagnosed with a heart condition and was given only a short amount of time left to live. They decided to re-marry, but the marriage was a short one.
Following the wedding, Lisa returned home to change out of her dress. Zak later found her, apparently asleep on the sofa. However, when Zak tried to wake up his new bride, he realised that she had passed away. Sobs.
Losing Lisa hit Zak hard (Credit: ITV)
Butch’s death
Zak suffered a lot of sorrow during his time in the Dales. One of the earlier moments saw his son Butch killed when a lorry crashed into the vehicle he was travelling in.
Zak later discovered that his mechanic wife Lisa had worked on the lorry before it crashed and the couple were briefly torn apart as the grieving father blamed her for Butch’s death.
Zak was devastated by Butch’s passing (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale Zak Dingle: Diagnosed with cancer
In 2001, Zak was diagnosed with testicular cancer, but he refused to have treatment.
This resulted in the family kidnapping him in bid to make him see sense. Zak eventually went to hospital and made a full recovery.
There was a touching scene years later in 2016 when Zak’s cancer was revisited. Knowing Zak had previously fought testicular cancer, David Metcalfe turned to him for some advice after he was told that he’d have to lose a testicle as part of his own battle against cancer.
Cain discovered Zak was his real dad (Credit: ITV)
Cain discovers the truth
Bad boy Cain was initially introduced to the show as Zak’s nephew, but it was later revealed that Zak and his brother’s wife Faith had had an affair and Zak was in fact Cain’s dad.
This truth came out during a heated argument between the pair. The two went on to have a strained relationship. This came to a head in 2011 when Cain was viciously attacked and left for dead. Zak was later revealed to be the culprit.
Zak suffered from mental illness (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale Zak Dingle: Nervous breakdown
Following his attack on Cain, Zak suffered with depression. He hit the bottle and became erratic and paranoid.
One episode saw him kill some chickens after he convinced himself there was something wrong with them. Another occasion saw him wandering the Moors while seeing visions of his dead son Butch.
He also became convinced that his cancer had returned. It later became apparent that he was suffering a nervous breakdown and he was sectioned. Halliwell was praised by fans for his emotional portrayal during this storyline.
Steve Halliwell passed away last year (Credit: ITV)
Final scene
Zak’s final episode aired in June 2023. During a light-hearted scene, Zak was shown beeping the horn on his mobility scooter as Dan Spencer, who was working at the garage, called him Evel Knievel.
Dan then asked him how many buses he’d driven over lately, with Zak joking that the potholes were enough of a challenge. Dan remarked that it was nice to see Zak out and about.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Zak Dingle was a mainstay in Emmerdale for almost 30 years. As the head of the Dingle clan, he was involved in some huge storylines during his time in the village.
During his life, Zak fathered seven children – though we didn’t meet them all – and married three different women. He was originally introduced as a boxing hardman, but soon evolved into a loving family man.
With Zak’s on-screen funeral taking place this week, here’s the lowdown on everything Zak Dingle.
Zak Dingle’s arrival in Emmerdale
Zak Dingle arrived in Emmerdale in October 1994 and immediately got on the wrong side of the locals. Having previously been a bare-knuckle boxer, Zak challenged old adversary Ned Glover to a bare-knuckle fight, which he went on to lose.
The Dingle family also started a feud with the McAllister family after holding them responsible for the death of Zak’s son, Ben. Ben was actually the first member of the Dingle family to appear in Emmerdale (August 1994). During a fight with Luke McAllister, Ben died of a heart defect, but the Dingles continued to blame Luke.
Zak was initially only supposed to be in a few episodes, but he made such a mark that actor Steve Halliwell was asked to stay on. The rest, as they say, is history.
Divorce from Nellie and meeting Lisa
Nellie was Zak’s first wife and the mother of five of his children – Nathan, Butch, Ben, Sam and Tina. She arrived at the start of 1995 and left at the end of the year to care for her father in Ireland.
Zak met Lisa in 1996 and the couple were instantly smitten. After divorcing Nellie, Zak married Lisa in 1998. That Christmas the pair got a present in the form of a baby, who they named Belle. It was a big surprise as Lisa hadn’t even known she was pregnant!
Nellie returned in 2000 and attempted to win Zak back, but he was not for turning.
Cain and Zak ended on good terms (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)
Relationship with Cain
Cain Dingle arrived in 2000 to attend the funeral of his ‘cousin’ Butch. But it was later revealed that Butch was actually his half brother.
Zak had a tempestuous relationship with Cain and during a heated argument in 2001, Zak revealed to Cain that he was his dad following an affair with Cain’s mum, Faith.
Cain and Zak went on to have a strained relationship. This came to a head in 2011 when Cain was viciously attacked and left for dead. Zak was later revealed to be the culprit. Zak and Cain’s relationship improved over the years, and, aside from Debbie, Cain was the last of the Dingles to see Zak alive. He is also the one to break the news of Zak’s passing to the rest of the family.
Zak’s health issues
In 2001, Zak was diagnosed with testicular cancer, but he refused to have treatment. His family eventually made him see sense and he went to hospital, eventually making a full recovery.
Years later, following this incident with Cain in 2011, Zak’s mental health took centre stage. Feeling guilty for attacking his son, Zak struggled to cope. He suffered from bouts of depression and hit the bottle hard.
He later became erratic and paranoid. After a vet gave his chickens a full bill of health, Zak convinced himself that something was wrong with them and he killed them. He also saw visions of his dead son Butch and became convinced that his cancer had returned. When it became obvious that a nervous breakdown was taking place, Zak was sectioned.
The storyline and Halliwell himself were praised by fans, who responded well to seeing an emotional side to Zak. The soap also received praise for covering the issue of male mental illness.
Lisa and Zak were a much-loved couple (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Joanie and losing Lisa
Zak and Lisa’s relationship wasn’t always rock solid, but they always found their way back to each other.
In 2000, Zak’s son Butch was killed when a lorry crashed into the bus he was travelling in. Zak initially blamed mechanic Lisa after he discovered that she had worked on the vehicle before it crashed. But he eventually relented.
The marriage collapsed completely in 2015 when Zak started a relationship with their lodger Joanie. Lisa and Zak divorced in 2016 and Zak married Joanie. The marriage was short-lived, however, due to Zak remaining close to his ex. Joanie then suffered a cardiac arrest and died in early 2017.
Lisa and Zak reunited in 2018. But there was no happy ever after as just a year later, Lisa was diagnosed with a heart condition and was given only a short amount of time left to live. The couple decided to re-marry, in what was an emotional occasion all round.
Following the wedding, Lisa returned home to change out of her dress after it became covered in mud. Zak went to find her and found her asleep on the sofa, but when he tried to wake her up he realised that she had passed away.
Steve Halliwell played the legendary character (Credit: Photo by ITV/Shutterstock )
Who played Zak Dingle?
Steve Halliwell played Zak from his first appearance in October 1994 until his final appearance in June 2023. One of his final scenes saw Zak beeping the horn on his mobility scooter as Dan Spencer, who was working at the garage, called him Evel Knievel. Zak then headed off to live in Scotland with Debbie.
In December 2023, it was announced that Steve Halliwell had sadly passed away at the age of 77. In a statement, the soap said: “It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that Emmerdale can confirm that Steve Halliwell, our beloved Zak Dingle, has peacefully passed away.
“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.
“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.”
Prior to Emmerdale, Halliwell had a long-standing role in The Practice, as well as making appearances in the likes of Coronation Street, Heartbeat and Cracker.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Tonight’s Emmerdale spoilers see Moira Dingle tell Cain that dad Zak has died. Cain learns the terrible news just as Moira decides to keep a secret from him – that she’s gotten a date for her operation. What will she decide to do?
Elsewhere, Billy tells Mack that he’s got another fight booked. Begging Mack to keep his secret, he’s left shocked when his friend agrees to help out.
Meanwhile, loved-up Tom and Amelia put on a show of their relationship for the punters of the Woolpack. Does Tom have everyone fooled?
Moira tells Cain that Zak has died in Emmerdale spoilers
1. Moira gets a date for her operation
Moira suffers a seizure while cooking. After coming to, she receives news of an available operation slot the next day. However, she decides to keep it a secret from Cain.
2. Cain learns that Zak has died
Then, as Cain goes for a shower, Moira answers a call from Debbie. Debbie tells her that Zak has passed away. How will Cain react to the heartbreaking news that his dad has died?
Billy tells Mack that he’s booked another fight (Credit: ITV)
Billy continues keeping secrets in Emmerdale spoilers
3. Billy begs Mack to keep a secret
Billy tells Mack he’s going to have to take on another fight. He begs Mack to keep it a secret.
Mack agrees not to say anything – and tells Billy that he wants to help him train.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Emmerdale has been on our screens since 1972, and has seen thousands of characters come and go over the years. Some stay in the soap for just a short stint, and for others it becomes a forever home.
But who are the soaps’ best ever characters? It’s a hard job, but we’ve whittled it down to 13 of our all time favourites, both past and present. So here they are…
Cain has been delivering us drama since 2000 (Credit: ITV)
Cain Dingle
Emmerdale OG bad boy, Cain is always top of the list. We can’t get enough of the sexy rogue.
Always central to any Dingle drama, Cain is the son of former lovers, Zak and Faith, but grew up thinking Shadrach was his father.
He arrived in 2000 as the black sheep of the family and delighted fans with his corrupt carry on.
Cain has had a lot of romantic entanglements during his 20 plus years in the Dales. These include high-stakes affairs with police officer Angie Reynolds and vicar Harriet Finch and a questionable dalliance with teen Amy Wyatt.
But two relationships have shaped him most. The first being his on/off one with cousin, Charity, and the other his passionate marriage to Moira.
Cain is a father of four, by four different women. He and Charity share daughter Debbie. Nate Robinson is Cain’s long-lost son who came into his life as an adult, Kyle Winchester was the result of his fling with Amy, and he has young Isaac with Moira.
The character is Emmerdale’s answer to the terminator. Seriously, the guy is indestructible! Cain has survived attempts on his life, near drowning and a brain tumour. And he’s endured a few stints in prison, the most recent being when he took the rap for Kyle killing Al Chapman.
It’s certainly been an action-packed two decades, we can’t wait to see what the next bring.
No one messes with Kim Tate and gets away with it (Credit: ITV)
Best Emmerdale characters: Kim Tate
Ruthless, scheming and ever so sexy, Kim is a goddess and we worship at her altar.
The legendary lady of the manor was introduced in December 1989 as Frank Tate’s gold-digging missus. Frank might have had money, but it was excitement Kim craved. Her affair with farmhand Dave Glover gave her that, plus a ‘who’s the daddy’ storyline when Kim gave birth to son James. The tot turned out to be Frank’s, and tragedy struck when Dave was killed in a fire.
After Dave’s demise, Kim’s marriage to Frank collapsed. He tried to have her killed, but Kim took revenge by faking her own death and framing Frank for murder. Her ‘return’ from the dead caused Frank to suffer a fatal heart attack. In shocking scenes, Kim put her compact mirror up to Frank’s mouth to check he’d stopped breathing before reapplying her powder.
Kim’s second husband was Steve Marchant, but that marriage also ended badly. She set him up for a crime she’d committed and fled the village in a helicopter.
Fast forward to 2018 and Kim made a dramatic return. She was thrust straight back into the action after ordering her third hubby Graham Foster to dispose of her step-grandson Joe Tate. Kim also got pushed off a balcony by Faith Dingle.
Kim was reunited with her son, Jamie Tate, and let’s just say the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Just like his mum, Jamie faked his own death.
Now Kim is onto husband number four, Will Taylor, and proved once again she’s not a woman to be messed with. When Will cheated with his ex Queen Kim got her revenge.
Eric Pollard is the king of illegal scams (Credit: ITV)
The village veteran, who’s the longest-serving character in Emmerdale, has been played by actor Chris Chittell for 38 years.
Eric was first introduced in 1986 and was only meant to stay for 12 episodes. But viewers loved his immoral antics, even if the other villagers didn’t.
The former antique dealer’s list of crimes include theft, fraud and even bigamy. Eric has always had an eye for the ladies and has five wives – two of which he was married to at the same time. His second wife, Elizabeth was one of the victims of the 1993 plane crash.
Eric was tracked down by his long-lost son. David, in 2006 and the pair forged a close relationship.
The other most important person in Eric’s life was his fifth wife and soulmate, Val Lambert. Their union was a very popular one, and fans felt Eric’s heartbreak when he lost his ‘Valerie’ in 2015.
He’s also had a relationship with Brenda Walker, who’s played by Chris’s real-life wife, Lesley Dunlop.
Time has certainly mellowed Eric, and he’s been forced to slow down following after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s last year. But there’s still life in the old dog yet, so expect more scams in the future.
Chas in her natural habitat behind the Woolpack bar (Credit: ITV)
Chas Dingle
Who remembers the moment Chas, short for Chastity, arrived in the village dressed as a nun for her cousin Marlon’s stag do? Talk about making an entrance!
A proper chip off the old Dingle block, Chas is the daughter of Faith and Shadrach and sister to Cain.
She’s also mum to Aaron. Chas gave birth to Aaron when she was 14, but the pair have a complicated relationship. Chas abandoned Aaron and was devastated to learn years later he’d been sexually abused by his father, Gordon. The guilt over abandoning her son has never really left her.
Chas has lived in Emmerdale since 2002 and has spent most of those years working at The Woolpack. She went from barmaid to landlady, before she was forced to sell her beloved pub. She’s now holds the position of manager.
Chas’s biggest weakness in life has always been men. She had a tempestuous relationship with Carl King. They almost got married, but Chas jilted Carl at the altar after discovering he’d been sleeping with Eve Jenson.
Then came her ill-fated affairs. First with Cameron Murray, who turned out to be a killer. Then Al Chapman, which resulted in Chas losing it all – including her husband, Paddy.
Fans loved Chas and Paddy together. The couple were dealt a cruel blow with the death of their first daughter Grace in 2018. But little Eve arrived the year after to help heal some of their pain.
Chas is a survivor, and has recently endured a battle against triple negative breast cancer. She underwent a double mastectomy and is currently in remission from the disease. Things are looking up on the love life front too, with a potential romance blossoming between her and Dr Liam Cavanagh.
Paddy’s been saving the village animals since 1997 (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Best Emmerdale characters: Paddy Kirk
Loveable Paddy is one of Emmerdale’s most cherished characters. He was introduced to viewers in 1997 as a locum vet.
Paddy is the son of Barbara and Bear Wolf, a former wrestler, who Paddy was estranged from until adulthood. He has a daughter, Eve, from his marriage to ex-wife Chas Dingle. He’s also been a father figure to Chas’s son, Aaron, over the years.
In 2024, Paddy married wife Mandy Dingle – for a second time, and his fifth in total. He and Mandy got hitched first time round in 1999, but split soon afterwards. Paddy’s also gone down the aisle with Emily Dingle, Rhona Goskirk, and of course, Chas. He’s also had a couple of extramarital affairs, with postmistress Viv Hope and teaching assistant Tess Harris. Don’t be fooled by the bumbling nature – Paddy can be a naughty boy when he wants to!
Paddy’s most enduring relationship is his bromance with best mate, Marlon Dingle. The pair’s silly antics have given viewers a lot of laughs over the years.
There have been incredibly sad times too. Paddy’s world was shattered by the loss of his daughter, Grace, who passed away moments after she was born. He also endured a battle with depression after his marriage split from Chas and contemplated ending his life.
Supported by his loved ones, Paddy found a way through, and his future is looking bright once more.
Charity Dingle is a classic Emmerdale icon (Credit: ITV)
Charity Dingle
Landlady Charity has been at the centre of the action in Emmerdale since 2000, except when she took a break from the village between 2005-2009.
Feisty and fearless, Charity’s life story is one hell of a read!
As a young teen she spent time on the streets working as a prostitute. During that dark period Charity was groomed and abused by corrupt cop DI Bails, which resulted in her falling pregnant at 14.
Charity’s second child, Debbie, was the product of a fling with her cousin, Cain. Charity and Cain’s on/off love affair has been central to the soap and provided one of its most popular partnerships. They’re also famed for their illegal scams. Charity is a mistress of disguise and loves a wig!
Charity has had four husbands. Her first marriage to Chris Tate ended with him committing suicide and framing her for murder. Husband number two, Declan Macey tried to have her killed, and her third marriage to Jai Sharma also turned sour. Vanessa Woodfield almost became Charity’s fourth spouse, but she then fell for Mackenzie Boyd.
Charity and Mack have weathered a few storms – including him fathering a baby behind her back, and her stabbing him, but they remain together.
These days, Charity is landlady of The Woolpack, which she co-owns with son, Ryan Stocks. She’s also mum to Noah and Moses, as well as grandmother to Sarah and Jack Sugden.
Sometimes Aaron is moody, other times he’s only a little bit moody (Credit: ITV)
Aaron Dingle
Aaron is one of the most complex and compelling characters Emmerdale has ever had.
He’s the son of Chas Dingle and Gordon Livesey. Chas gave birth to Aaron when she was only 14 and placed him into care. He had a difficult upbringing and suffered abuse at the hands of his father.
Aaron came to live in the village permanently in 2008 and was a troublemaker from the word go.
Early on, Aaron realised he fancied boys. After coming out to his family, Aaron fell for builder Jackson Walsh. But tragedy struck when Jackson was paralysed in a horrific accident, and Aaron helped him die.
By some miracle, Aaron and Robert got married. They split for good after Robert was jailed for murder.
Aaron moved on with Ben Tucker, but he was bumped off by serial killer Meena Julta. Shortly afterwards, Aaron left the village for a new life abroad.
He made a brief return the following year, but tragedy struck again he lost his half-sister Liv Flaherty in Emmerdale’s 50th anniversary storm.
Aaron’s now back in the Dales for good. His time now is mainly spent masterminding illegal activities with partner-in-crime/best mate Mackenzie Boyd. And there’s also a new man on scene in the form of former army medic, John Sugden, who just happens to be Robert’s brother.
Has Aaron met ‘the one’? Only time will tell…
Val Pollard was a true one-off (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Best Emmerdale characters: Val Pollard
Vivacious Val Pollard left us nearly ten years ago, but her memory lives on.
The gobby Geordie was Eric Pollard’s fifth wife, and Diane Sugden’s younger sister. She had to two children, Sharon and Paul. Val’s son Paul was the product of her affair with Diane’s husband, Rodney Blackstock.
Val, or Valerie as Eric often used to call her, was larger than life and had a penchant for causing trouble. Her and Eric were both as bad as each other, aka the perfect match.
The couple married in 2008 and purchased The Grange B&B, which they ran together. They took teen tearaway Amy Wyatt (now Barton) under their wing and ended up adopting her.
Val and Eric’s marriage hit the rocks after she cheated on him on holiday in Portugal and contracted HIV. The couple reconciled, but Val got in trouble with the police for committing fraud.
She planned to fake her own death, but didn’t get that far after becoming one of the victims in the 2015 helicopter crash. Val met a grisly end when she was impaled by a shard of glass. She rose from the dead a few days later and appeared as a ghost to say goodbye to Eric.
An unforgettable character, who’s truly missed.
We miss Andy Sugden (Credit: ITV)
Andy Sugden
Andy wasn’t born into the Sugden brood, but was adopted by his best friend Robert’s parents Jack and Sarah in 2000. Their act of kindness gave Andy hope of a stable future, but life turned out to be anything but.
First Andy accidentally killed Sarah after setting fire to a barn at the family farm, not realising she was inside. Then came the discovery that Robert had been sleeping with his wife, Katie. Andy decided to shoot Robert in revenge, but accidentally pulled the trigger on Jack, nearly killing him.
Andy fathered a daughter, Sarah, with next partner Debbie Dingle. They also went on to have a son, Jack, seven years later.
His second marriage to Jo Stiles saw Andy turn into a violent abuser. And when Jo found the courage to leave him, Andy suffered a complete mental breakdown.
Andy and Katie remarried, but she died weeks later after a confrontation with Robert. Andy then arranged for Ross Barton to shoot Robert (what’s his obsession with guns?) – but his brother survived.
20 years in the village came to a dramatic end for Andy after his vengeful ex Chrissie White framed him for a crime he didn’t commit. Andy went on the run and as far as we know is still running.
Bring him back, please!
Moira has made her mark on the village (Credit: ITV)
Moira Dingle
Feisty farmer Moira is another one of Emmerdale’s power-houses and the woman who finally tamed Cain Dingle.
Moira and Cain are one of soaps’ most adored couples. Their love story started as a steamy affair but has gone the distance. They have survived betrayals on both sides, including Moira’s fling with Cain’s son, Nate. Well, they don’t call her Mucky Moira for nothing!
Moira arrived in the village with her first husband, and childhood sweetheart, John Barton, and their kids Adam, Holly and Hannah (now Matty). Her affair with Cain finished her marriage and Moira was heartbroken when John died in a car crash. Tragedy struck again in 2016 when Holly died of a heroin overdose.
Moira’s other memorable moments include her pushing her sister-in-law and nemesis Emma Barton to her death off a viaduct, and giving birth to baby Isaac without knowing she was pregnant.
The past few months have been particularly brutal for Moira after being diagnosed with a non-cancerous brain tumour. We’re keeping everything crossed she makes it through because we need Moira in our lives.
Best Emmerdale characters: Zak Dingle
Zak was the patriarch of the most iconic family in Emmerdale – the Dingles – for almost 30 years.
A pig farmer by trade and former bare-knuckle boxer, Zak arrived in the village in October, 1994. Zak’s first wife was Nellie Lynch, and they had five kids. Their four sons were Nathan, Sam, Butch and Ben. Zak and Nellie also had a daughter, Tina.
Zak also fathered son Cain during an affair with his brother’s wife, Faith.
After Zak and Nellie divorced, Zak found love again with Lisa Clegg. They welcomed daughter, Belle into their lives on Christmas Day 1998 after Lisa (who didn’t know she was pregnant) gave birth in a pigsty.
Zak had a disastrous third marriage to Joanie Wright, which left fans in uproar over his betrayal of Lisa. But thankfully the Emmerdale writers saw the error of their ways and reunited Zak and Lisa. They remained together until her death in May 2019.
After losing his Lisa, Zak was a bit of a lost soul, although remained fiercely protective of his family.
Actor Steve Halliwell, who played Zak for three decades, passed away in December 2023. Zak was quickly written out and viewers were told he was visiting family in Scotland.
Zak’s family are soon to receive the sad news he’s passed away. The Dingles bring him home and lay Zak to rest in the village.
Seth and Betty were the beating heart of Emmerdale village (Credit: ITV)
Betty Eagleton
Lovely Betty was the heart and soul of the village during her 21 years there.
She had a habit of being nosey and interfering, but Betty always meant well. She was a friend to many.
Betty came to the Dales in 1994 and discovered her former partner, Seth Armstrong was living there. The golden couple rekindled their romance and hosted a 1940s theme night for the villagers.
They remained together until Seth died on an airplane travelling back from Australia. Betty brought his body back to Emmerdale and had him buried in the woods surrounding Home Farm.
Betty remained in the village for several years after Seth’s passing and dealt with the loss of other dear friends, including Alan Turner. She went to live in Australia with new partner Reuben Archibald in 2015.
Sadly actress Paula Tilbrook died in December 2019, but Betty remains alive and well.
Seth Armstrong
We can’t have Betty, without her lovely Seth. He was one of Emmerdale’s all time greats. Seth first appeared on screen in 1978. He was a temporary character to begin with, but was popular with the fans. By 1980, Seth was a full time regular.
After Seth’s wife, Meg, passed away, he went on to rekindle his relationship with former flame, Betty.
He also landed his dream job as a gamekeeper. When Seth wasn’t working at Home Farm he could usually be found supping a pint in the Woolie.
Seth was written out of the show in 2003 and his character was killed off two years later.
We like to think Seth is sitting on a cloud, beer in hand, watching the drama continue in his beloved village.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
In Emmerdale spoilers next week, the Dingles are devastated as they learn of Zak’s death. They gather and raise a glass to Zak’s memory and say goodbye to the great man. Get those tissues ready.
Cain can’t believe the news as Moira sobs (Credit: ITV)
Zak Dingle dies
Last month, Cain travelled up to Scotland, where Zak has been living, after getting word from daughter Debbie that Zak’s health was deteriorating.
In upcoming scenes, Cain returns home from Scotland unexpectedly. Moira experiences a seizure while cooking breakfast and receives news that she can go in for an operation the next day. But she avoids telling Cain this news.
As Cain goes for a shower, Moira answers a call from Debbie – revealing the tragic news Zak has passed away.
Sam, Belle and Cain reminisce over their dad in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)
The family reminisce about Zak in Emmerdale spoilers
Cain tells the rest of the family about Zak’s death. Zak was such a big part of the village that it’s a sad day for everyone.
The family take comfort in each other. Knocked for six by Zak’s passing, Cain, Sam and Belle reminisce about their father.
Later, the villagers all gather and wave Sam and Cain off as the pair poignantly head to Scotland to bring Zak home, while, thanks to Chas, the Woolpack becomes a space for mourning.
Later, at Wishing Well Cottage, the Dingles raise a glass to Zak.
The residents gather for Zak’s funeral (Credit: ITV)
Mystery guest at the funeral
On the day of the funeral, a long-lost relative appears at the graveside, shocking the whole family. Who is it?
Following actor Steve Halliwell’s death last year, Emmerdale bosses confirmed that Zak would get an on-screen send off.
Earlier this year, Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper said: “We lost Steve recently – the very sad loss of Steve. So we’re going to be marking Zak’s passing – the iconic Zak Dingle character – in the coming months with a Dingle funeral.”
She went on to add that filming the funeral scenes would be “very difficult for a lot of people who work on our show and a lot of our viewers who have grown and loved Zak for many, many years.
“But there’ll be a hugely fitting tribute for such an iconic character coming up.”
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
A long-lost relative arrives at the funeral of Zak Dingle in Emmerdale spoilers for next week. The Dingles are informed of Zak’s passing by Debbie, leaving them all stunned.
Belle, Cain and Sam seek comfort in one another while the entire village mourns the loss of Zak. The day of his funeral arrives, but proceedings are interrupted when an unexpected guest arrives at the graveside.
The Dingles are left devastated as they learn of Zak’s death (Credit: ITV)
Zak’s death announced in Emmerdale spoilers
Debbie breaks the news
After Cain returns home, Moira takes a phone call from Debbie. She reveals that Zak has sadly passed away, with Moira breaking the news to Cain.
He later informs the Dingle family of Zak’s death. The family are in mourning, as is the rest of the village.
Heartbreak for the Dingles
The Dingles make an effort to comfort one another. Cain and Sam soon find Belle, and the trio reminisce about their late father as they try to come to terms with his death.
The villagers gather on Main Street to wave Sam and Cain off as they head to Scotland to bring Zak home.
The Dingles gather for Zak’s funeral (Credit: ITV)
The village is in mourning in Emmerdale spoilers
The Dingles remember Zak
Chas turns the Woolpack into a mourning space in the wake of Zak’s death. The residents are grateful to have somewhere to go and remember the legend that was Zak Dingle by. Later on, the family gather at Wishing Well to raise a glass in Zak’s memory.
An unexpected visitor
The day of Zak’s funeral arrives and the Dingles all come together to mourn his passing. However, a long-lost relative appears at the graveside, leaving the family stunned.
But, who is the mystery guest? And why have they turned up now?
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Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Moira Dingle in Emmerdale is the feisty, fiery, fierce farmer who’s come through the loss of her husband and her daughter, killed a love rival, and managed to tame Cain Dingle!
Here’s her story.
Moira’s arrival in Emmerdale
Moira Barton came to Emmerdale with her family – husband John and children Adam, Holly and Hannah (now Matty).
The farming clan had taken over Butler’s, though Moira took a job as a barmaid at the Woolpack. Chef Marlon even developed a bit of a crush on Moira, but she firmly told him nothing would happen!
Moira and John came to the village with their children (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
John and Moira in Emmerdale
Moira and John’s marriage became strained when he snogged the face off Eve Jenson – that’ll do it!
But Moira got her own back – and then some – when she started a torrid affair with Cain Dingle. Cain taunted John about their affair and he threw Moira out!
Eventually, John and Moira began to reconcile. They planned a night in a hotel but on the way there, John crashed his car and he died. Moira was devastated.
Cain and Moira tied the knot but Moira was hiding a secret – that she’d slept with James nine months before son Adam was born. Awks. It turned out James was indeed Adam’s dad.
Cain and Moira had a steamy affair! (ITV/Shutterstock)
Holly’s death
Meanwhile, Holly’s drug addiction was worsening and causing problems for Cain and Moira. In fact, things got to the point of no return and eventually they split for good.
As Moira was beginning to get her life back on track, tragedy struck. Holly overdosed and died. Cain was there to support Moira through that death, and the death of James just a short while later.
Murder!
Sister-in-law from hell Emma Barton had been increasingly unstable since she killed her estranged husband James. And it all came to a head in October 2017.
Emma and Moira ended up in a tussle in a barn – the one Moira was remembering when she was in a similar situation with Ruby recently.
That time, though, there was an added bit of drama – Moira was in labour, even though she hadn’t known she was pregnant! She gave birth to Isaac that same night.
Emma snatched the newborn baby though he was found in the church later.
Later, Emma was found dead having fallen – or been pushed – from Hotten viaduct. It turned out Moira was the one to blame. She’d shoved Emma when she taunted her over Holly’s death.
Adam on the run
Moira’s son Adam took the blame for his mum even though she tried to confess.
He was arrested, but Moira and Cain broke him out of his prison van and he legged it!
Cain found out Moira had been sleeping with Nate (Credit: ITV)
Affair with Nate!
Cain and Moira reconciled but she was soon having her head turned by handsome farmhand Nate Robinson and she embarked on a steamy affair with him.
As it turned out, though, Nate was actually Cain’s long-lost son who wanted revenge on his dad. The whole thing exploded – literally – in a dramatic confrontation on a burning boat.
Moira turned to drink in the aftermath, and she and Cain split again.
Eventually though she kicked her booze habit and the pair got back together.
Moira is waiting for surgery on her tumour (Credit: ITV)
Brain tumour
Now, poor Moira is struggling with her brain tumour diagnosis. She needs surgery on the tumour and is desperately scared about what the future could hold.
More drama, we reckon!
Who plays Moira Dingle in Emmerdale?
Moira is played by Natalie J Robb. She’s been acting since she was 9 years old. She spent three years in Doctors playing Jude Carlyle and had roles in EastEnders, Take the High Road, Waterloo Road, and The Bill before she joined Emmerdale.
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page @emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter @emmerdaleinside
Classic Emmerdale spoilers for episodes airing on ITV3 on Wednesday October 2 reveal Debbie is cast out by the Dingles after Lisa attacks her. These episodes originally aired on 6 and 7 February 2006.
Debbie and Lisa have a violent confrontation (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Debbie and the Dingles at war
Wanting to make sure the Dingles know she does not want Sarah back, Debbie tips her old cot down the stairs. Lisa struggles to stay calm and Debbie is pleased to see she’s getting to her.
Lisa eventually gives Debbie a piece of her mind before breaking down in tears. Debbie hates seeing Lisa upset and agrees Sarah can come home.
When Cain then returns without Sarah, all hell breaks loose. Debbie is smug as he explains Emily and Sarah had moved by the time he got there. Andy is fuming and Jack has to hold him back, meanwhile, Cain refuses to talk to Debbie.
Debbie’s attitude infuriates Lisa and she’s tipped over the edge when Debbie questions her parenting of Belle. Lisa launches herself at Debbie and has to be restrained by Zak. Debbie is dragged out by Cain and as Zak comforts Lisa, Debs is left banging on the door outside.
Meanwhile, the Sugdens try to come to terms with Sarah not coming home. Andy is gutted and knows Daz will feel just as bad when he breaks the news to him.
Debbie is not impressed by the hostel she visits with Jasmine and Ashley (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)
Debbie burns her bridges in Classic Emmerdale
Ashley and Jasmine take Debbie to look at a hostel. But when she sees the living conditions she knows she has to get back in at the Dingles’. She apologises and tells her family she wants Sarah back.
They are all stunned, but that soon turns to anger when she reveals that she only wants the baby so she can get a council house. Cain lashes out, telling his daughter she is poison. The family turn their backs on her completely.
Debbie heads back to Jasmine, who offers comfort. She begs Ashley to take Debbie in, but will he agree?
Aaron’s fears revealed
As Aaron continues to wind Chas up, he finds himself spending time with Del. He eventually admits to her he’s worried he will be pushed out at home when Sandra has the new baby.
Del explains to Chas Aaron’s worries, but Chas is more upset that he chose to confide in Del and not her. Their relationship is getting worse not better and she doesn’t know where to turn.
Aaron later discovers from Victoria and Kayleigh that Carl and Del once slept together. He intends to tell Chas to upset her, but will his plan work?
Nicola pushes Ivan in Classic Emmerdale
Ivan wants to get Simon and Nicola to at least talk. He encourages Simon to sit down with his ex as their behaviour is upsetting everyone. But it doesn’t go well and Nicola turns to Ivan for comfort. He feels very awkward about being her shoulder to cry on, but will he tell her?
Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.
Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.
Visit our Facebook page@emmerdaleinsider for all the latest Emmerdale news, gossip and spoilers and let us know what you think! Or find us on Twitter@emmerdaleinside
In next week’s Emmerdale spoilers, Moira makes a fatal error at Butlers that results in multiple deaths. The tragic incident only further fuels Mack and Matty’s fears for her health. But can they persuade headstrong Moira to slow down?
Moira, Matty and Mack make a devastating discovery at Butlers Farm (Credit: ITV)
Moira vows its business as usual in Emmerdale spoilers
Moira’s life has been turned upside down since being diagnosed with a brain tumour.
In the aftermath of the terrifying barn fire, Moira suffered a seizure in front of husband Cain. A scan at the hospital detected a mass on her brain, and doctors revealed Moira had a meningioma, a type of non cancerous tumour.
Medics have opted for a ‘wait and see’ approach to treatment, and Moira has said no to brain surgery. So now she’s left facing a very uncertain future. But despite her terror and fear, Moira is determined to carry on as normal. Her priorities are being a mum, wife, and of course, running her beloved Butlers.
But has she underestimated the toll its going to take on her already fragile health?
Moira can’t remember not shutting her sheep in safely (Credit: ITV)
Moira makes a grave error at work
Matty is deeply concerned for his mum’s wellbeing and decides to move in to keep a closer eye on her. Moira is annoyed when she sees her son arriving with a holdall and carries on insisting she’s fine.
But that’s really not the case, and as Moira’s erratic behaviour continues, Mack and Matty make a worrying discovery.
Mack finds Butlers’ flock of sheep have somehow escaped and accuses Moira of forgetting to shut them in properly. Moira agrees to stop going out alone, but it’s too little too late when Mack and Matty locate the sheep.
They discover the majority of the flock are dead, and one is them is in a very bad state. Can the poor creature be saved?
Moira offloads her woes onto sister-in-law Ruby (Credit: ITV)
Moira turns to Ruby for support
News of fatalities leaves Moira distraught as she struggles to remember how – or why – the sheep ended up escaping in the first place.
But the upsetting incident is also a wake-up call, as Moira accepts she needs to take a break from farming and focus on her wellbeing.
Afterwards, she reaches out to former nemesis Ruby, who’s also in distress after the death of her late mum, Helen. Ruby spent 30 years estranged from her parent before her passing.
As the ladies get talking, Moira opens up about her health struggles, while Ruby discusses her mother’s cremation. Will their shared pain help give Moira and Ruby strength to carry on?
Young Isaac Dingle actor Bobby Dunsmuir has proved himself quite the Emmerdale superstar in recent weeks and it’s not gone unnoticed by fans.
He previously came to viewers’ attention when he adopted Minty the lamb and left them devastated when Minty died.
However, it was his quick-thinking last night (Thursday September 19) that saw him call an ambulance for Moira while she was having a seizure that got fans talking again.
Isaac looked at Moira with concern (Credit: ITV)
Isaac acts to save Moira in Emmerdale
Moira has been diagnosed with a brain tumour. She has been advised by the hospital to follow a ‘watch and wait’ course of treatment, where they will keep an eye on things and operate if the tumour gets any bigger.
However, Moira so far has ruled out having surgery altogether, much to the dismay of her family. Due to her seizures and odd behaviour, she can’t be left alone in charge of her kids. But last night, Mackenzie had to pop out to collect a sick Moses, leaving Moira looking after Isaac.
Although she insisted she would be fine, she wasn’t when she and her son were setting up a cushion obstacle course and she collapsed having another seizure. Isaac was terrified and started shouting “Mummy, Mummy” as Moira lay lifeless on the floor.
But he also managed to call and ambulance, meaning the paramedics arrived and helped Moira. What a little star!
Moira was overwhelmed when she realised her son had saved her, but he didn’t want any praise, he simply told her he just wanted her to be his mummy for years and years. Will this make her rethink her surgery decision?
A family cuddle for the Dingles after Moira’s seizure (Credit: ITV)
Fans gush over Isaac
Those watching at home couldn’t contain their love for young Isaac on social media.
“Well Emmerdale has killed me off tonight with Moira, Cain and Isaac, that last scene. ‘I want you to be my mum for years,’” wrote one alongside a series of crying emojis.
“Isaac is too adorable,” said a second, with many others writing the same sentiment.
A third wrote: “The young boy Bobby Dunsmuir who plays Isaac Dingle is a great wee actor. He was brilliant tonight.”
“That kid who plays Isaac is an absolute star in the making. He’s gotta be the most adorable kid since April when she was little,” agreed someone else.
A fifth added: “Love Isaac out-acting the rest of village idiots!” Someone else also agreed: “Isaac is acting everyone else out of the village!”
“More Isaac he’s brilliant,” begged someone else, while another said: “Isaac is such a great little actor. A star in the making.”
Isaac recently befriended a lamb called Minty (Credit: ITV)
Emmerdale: How old is Isaac Dingle?
Isaac Dingle is six years old. He was born on October 2, 2017, so is soon to turn seven.
Isaac has been played by a series of different actors, with three actors playing him whilst he was a baby. Harvey Brook, Elias Walker and Bobby Dunsmuir all have acted the part.
Bobby was one of the original actors who played Isaac when he was a baby.
Now, Bobby continues to play Isaac as he grows older. Bobby turned seven in July 2024, so he is a few months older than his on-screen alter ego.
