Emmerdale star says Steve Halliwell tribute has 'Dingles all over it' and teases 'poignant' scenes

Zak Dingle star Steve Halliwell will get an emotional tribute led by his Emmerdale co-stars and on-screen family, some of which have given an insight on what to expect

Emotions will be running high as news of Zak Dingle's death filters through Emmerdale - but soap stars have made sure Steve Halliwell's on-screen tribute is in his image.

The beloved actor portrayed Dingle patriarch Zak for almost 30 years and, though his role was not initially intended to be a permanent fixture, Steve Halliwell remained an integral character in the ITV soap as he won viewers and bosses over throughout the years. Steve passed away in December, 2023, at the age of 77.

During his stint in the long-running show, the pig farmer, recognisable with his trademark cap and wellies, was involved in plenty of dramatic storylines, rows and affairs, before eventually marrying Lisa Dingle (played by Jane Cox). Since his passing, stars and producers of the Yorkshire-based programme have joined forces to bring Steve Halliwell the homage he deserves.

While he insisted he couldn't say too much about the upcoming tribute episode, Cain Dingle star Jeff Hordley said that it has "got Dingles written all over it" as he teased "really poignant moments."

Speaking about the scenes, the actor - who has portrayed Zak's illegitimate son since 2000 - said: "There’s really poignant moments in it. And whilst we were filming, we were all focused and giving the script everything it needed. But off camera as well – and Steve would have enjoyed this, because Steve always liked to have a giggle behind the camera – whilst we weren’t rolling, we made sure we had some laughs as well. Because when we do get together as a group, we do make sure that it’s fun to film."

Soap stars have made sure laughter also had a place on the set of the soap as Jeff continued: "What I’m trying to say is that the mood wasn’t just downbeat, we were making sure that we were having a laugh, and Steve wouldn’t have wanted it any other way."

Much like her Cain co-star, Eden Taylor-Draper had her own tribute for Steve Halliwell, whom she recognised as the "funniest man ever." The Belle Dingle actress shared: "He was a really weird combination of a father figure, best friend, a stand-up comedian and a counsellor. He was everything."

She continued: "It really feels like he lives on because all of us have traits of his; our sense of humour or things we bond over, so every day when we are together, it feels like Steve is still part of the conversation or moment." Lisa Riley, aka Mandy Dingle, also teased: "Zak’s love of music and the nostalgia are all there for the viewers to see.”

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