Steve Halliwell, the beloved actor who portrayed Zak Dingle on Emmerdale for nearly 30 years, passed away in December at the age of 77. Halliwell’s will revealed that he left £63,000, with all proceeds going to his widow, Valerie, and their daughter, Charlotte. Reports suggest that during his long tenure on the ITV soap, Halliwell could have earned up to £200,000 annually, having appeared in nearly 2,500 episodes since joining the cast in 1994.

In tribute to Halliwell’s unforgettable role, Emmerdale has announced plans for a touching on-screen farewell to Zak Dingle later this year. The show’s producer, Sophie Roper, explained that the upcoming Dingle family funeral will not only mark Zak’s passing but also honor the legacy of Steve Halliwell, a character loved by fans for decades. The Dingle family has long been central to the show, and this tribute will be a significant and emotional moment for both the cast and viewers who cherished Zak’s heartwarming and humorous presence.

Following his death, Emmerdale released a heartfelt statement, expressing deep sadness and extending condolences to Halliwell’s family. The soap described him as the proud and crafty head of the Dingle family, known for bringing warmth and laughter to the show. John Whiston, Managing Director of Continuing Drama, praised Halliwell as a rare individual who was as kind off-screen as he was talented on it. As the patriarch of the Dingle clan, his character’s strong but compassionate leadership resonated with millions of fans. Halliwell’s loss leaves a void in Emmerdale, but his legacy will continue to be felt by viewers and colleagues alike.