Emmerdale casts’ moving tributes to Zak Dingle star as Steve Halliwell dies
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Grief-stricken Emmerdale stars are remembering iconic actor Steve Halliwell after news of his passing at the age of 77 on Friday (December 15).
Steve, who brought the character of Zak Dingle to life on the long-running ITV soap for nearly three decades, passed away peacefully at a hospice in Leeds, surrounded by loved ones. His family stated: "He was making us laugh to the end, the most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for, family was everything to him.
"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." Now colleagues and co-stars of the late actor have been sharing their heartfelt condolences.
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Lisa Riley, who portrayed Steve's on-screen niece Mandy Dingle, took to social media to express her love and appreciation for him alongside a snap of him. She wrote on Instagram: "My dearest Steve….love you so much you are now finally at peace.
"Thank you for years of laughter, you were still laughing right up to the end." Lisa added: "Adored, loved, respected by us all, a LEGEND in my eyes that’s for sure—we have stories and memories to last for many more years to come.
"Sleep well Stevie—our prayers of strength go to Charlotte, Val, and Angelina at this really difficult time…our extended family." Former Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher, known for his role as Andy Sugden, shared his thoughts, saying: "What a man and what a legacy. So many incredible memories. We had some fun. God Bless."
Michelle Hardwick, who stars as Vanessa on the show, reflected on Steve's passing, saying, "A wonderful man, will be greatly missed. Thinking of his family at this sad time, rest in peace Steve." Another Emmerdale actor, Danny Miller, who portrayed Aaron Livesy since 2008, expressed his deep sorrow at the loss of his co-star and mentor.
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Sharing a nostalgic photo of the two of them on set, Danny wrote on Instagram: "From day one he took me under his wing and helped guide me on and off set. He never failed to effortlessly make me and everyone else corpse with a simple look or grunt or 'mmmm EH?!' The King of the ‘double takes’ and the King of The Dingles."
Danny ended his message with a heartfelt farewell, saying, "We’ll miss you mate. On and off set. Rest well Steve and leave one in the pump for me." #RestInPeace".
Hayley Tamaddon, who played Del Dingle, wrote: "This is sad news. He was a wonderful man. We had many a giggle together when I was in the show. The Dingles have lost a hero." Emmerdale's production team also paid tribute to Steve, recognizing his indelible connection to the show.
A statement read: "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."
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- Emmerdale
- ITV
- Family
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