Emmerdale recast 'sealed' for returning icon at Zak Dingle's funeral - but fans not happy

Emmerdale viewers reckon the soap could be recasting a beloved character for Zak Dingle’s upcoming funeral scenes.

Zak, played by Steve Halliwell, made his debut in 1994 and went on to become one on the soap’s much-loved characters as the head of the Dingle clan.

Sadly, Steve passed away at the age of 77 last year after numerous health battles. Currently, Zak is off-screen residing with his granddaughter Debbie Dingle (Charley Webb) in Scotland.

Last week though, the soap set up Zak Dingle’s death storyline, after his family learned he was ill in Scotland. As a result, Cain (Jeff Hordley) headed up there to be with him.

Back in July, Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper revealed that there would be "a Dingle funeral" for Zak later in the year. And fans are certain a soap legend is heading back for the heartbreaking event - but with a twist.

Viewers are convinced Debbie could be making a return to the Dales for the funeral however, they fear a recast is on the cards. Debbie (Charley Webb) was a regular on the soap making her first appearance in 2002.

In 2021, Debbie left the Dales though after 19 years. Now, viewers have shared their thoughts about her potential return, with some claiming she could be recast in a blow to fans.

Writing on a Reddit thread, one person said: “Anyone think they’d replace Debbie with a new actress and have her return?” Someone else added: “If Debbie doesn’t want to come back then replace her with another actress.”

A third penned: “I really hope not! But it would make no sense if she didn't come back as that's where Zak is supposed to be.” Another chimed in and claimed: “Yeah if Debbie was to come back it would be as a recast now as Charley Webb said she'll never return to the show.”

According to Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper, Zak’s upcoming funeral scenes were "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 airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm