Emmerdale fans are speculating on how the show will handle the announcement of Zak Dingle’s death, with many convinced that Belle Dingle will face another heartbreaking blow. The beloved character, portrayed by the late Steve Halliwell, first appeared in 1994 and quickly became a fan favorite as the patriarch of the Dingle family.

Tragically, Steve Halliwell passed away at 77 last year after a series of health struggles. His family announced that he passed away peacefully with loved ones around him, describing him as an amazing father and grandfather who kept them laughing until the end. Steve’s presence on the ITV soap dwindled as his character, Zak, spent time in Scotland with other Dingle family members.

Fans now believe that the show will soon confirm Zak’s passing. Some suspect that Belle, his on-screen daughter, will face yet another devastating ordeal upon hearing the news. A Reddit user speculated that Debbie might return to the village, gather all the Dingles at Wishing Well Cottage, and break the news about Zak’s death.

There’s a consensus among viewers that Belle, portrayed by Eden Taylor-Draper and currently entangled in a harrowing domestic abuse plot with her husband Tom, could receive another crushing blow due to Zak’s death. One viewer predicted that the show might link Zak’s death to Belle’s abuse storyline, suggesting that Tom might stop Belle from attending Zak’s funeral, causing her to snap and blame Tom for not being able to see her father one last time.

Another fan added that Tom might refuse to let Belle visit Zak when he is sick, leading to Zak’s death. Belle could end up blaming herself for not being there for her father, with Tom gaslighting her into believing it was her fault that Zak didn’t get better and died. This potential twist could be a pivotal moment, leading to a dramatic and emotional announcement of Zak’s death on the ITV soap.