- Steve Halliwell, Zak Dingle, dies
- Long Emmerdale tenure
- Fondly remembered by colleagues
The actor, who debuted on the long-running ITV program in 1994, was described by his family as “making us laugh until the end” and by his coworkers as “a much-loved friend.
Steve Halliwell, who portrayed Zak Dingle on the long-running serial opera Emmerdale for nearly three decades, passed away at 77.
In October 1994, the actor debuted as the patriarch of the Dingle family and subsequently became closely associated with the program.
His family stated in a statement that he passed away “peacefully surrounded by his loved ones” and that he “made us laugh until the very end.”
Additionally, colleagues lauded him, describing him as “a dear friend.”
ITV stated, “Emmerdale can confirm with profound sorrow and a burdened heart that our cherished Zak Dingle, Steve Halliwell, has passed away peacefully.
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“At this challenging time, his family, friends, and loved ones have our deepest condolences and remain in our thoughts and prayers. We kindly ask that you honor their privacy as they endure the sorrow of his passing.
“Emmerdale will perpetually be associated with Steve.”
“The patriotic protector and patriarch of the Dingle clan.”
With sincerity and wit in everything he undertook, recalling him has always been an absolute pleasure. It is impossible not to beam when you think of him.
Halliwell’s family stated, “He peacefully slept with his loved ones by his side.
“He brought a smile to our faces until the very end; he was the epitome of a benevolent father and grandfather; his family meant everything to him.”
“In his final days, we would like to thank the exceptional personnel at St James Hospital and the Wheatfield Hospice for their compassion and support. He desired nothing but happiness and jubilation for a life well-lived.
Halliwell’s captivating portrayal of Zak Dingle, though not originally conceived as a permanent fixture, propelled him to the forefront of the serial drama, captivating audiences and producers.
Zak Dingle: Emmerdale’s Iconic Journey
The pig farmer, renowned for his wax jacket, wellies, and flat helmet, actively participated in several dramatic plotlines, including divorcing his first wife, Nellie (Sandy Gough), and subsequently marrying Lisa (Jane Cox).
Additional challenges arose in his romantic life when he had an affair and subsequently wed Joanie Wright (portrayed by Denise Black), only to rejoin Lisa later.
The actor stated that the tumultuous plotlines were not too dissimilar from his own life, as he had struggled with alcoholism and mental illness.
Additionally, he labeled himself a “functioning alcoholic” because he was capable of working and going about his daily activities despite being “too dependent on alcohol.”
His experiences were detailed in the autobiography “If the Cap Fits: My Rocky Road to Emmerdale.”
ITV in the North’s managing director of continuing drama, John Whiston, remarked that Halliwell “was just as fantastic off-screen as it was on.”
“Millions of Emmerdale viewers regarded him as the cunning and powerful Dingle patriarch who guided the clan with a gentle disposition and a firm fist,” he explained.
“Among all Emmerdale’s employees, he was a beloved colleague and friend, the show’s undisputed father, and a mischievous, amusing uncle.” All will sorely miss him.”
