Emmerdale fans concerned as Cain exits village to be with poorly Zak Dingle

Emmerdale's Zak Dingle has been mentioned off-screen as his family members grow concerned for his health - but is a heartbreaking death on the horizon?

Emmerdale's Lisa Riley talks about Zak Dingle memorial episode

Emmerdale has provided an update on Zak Dingle's health, revealing that the character is unwell. In Wednesday's episode (September 25), Belle Dingle, played by Eden Taylor-Draper, confided in Chas (Lucy Pargeter) about her intention to report Tom's abusive behaviour to the police.

Belle had recently discovered a hidden camera in her cottage, installed by her estranged husband Tom (James Chase), which left her feeling violated.

After discussing the situation with Lydia (Karen Blick), Belle decided to take action against Tom and seek assistance from the police.

However, Belle and Chas's conversation at The Woolpack was interrupted by Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley), who had just finished a phone call.

He revealed that he had been speaking to Debbie about his and Belle's father Zak's health.

Cain and Zak have fought over the years.

Cain Dingle left Emmerdalr village to be with his dad Zak (Image: ITV)

"It's just dad, he's not well and doing her head in", Cain informed Belle.

When Chas enquired about Zak's condition, Cain responded: "A bit breathless, but then he always does stop halfway up the stairs don't he", expressing concern.

Cain also announced his plans to leave the village the following day to visit his father in Scotland. Despite Belle's offer to check on their father, Cain declined as she needed to deal with Tom, reports Leeds Live.

Later, Cain shared his travel plans with Liam Cavanagh (Jonny McPherson) but expressed worry about leaving Moira (Natalie Robb) alone after her brain tumour diagnosis.

Steve Halliwell

Steve Halliwell passed away in December last year (Image: PA)

Chas attempted to persuade Belle to check on Zak, but Belle reassured her that they had spoken the previous night and he seemed fine. However, could Zak Dingle's tragic death be imminent?

The iconic character of Zak Dingle was portrayed by actor Steve Halliwell on the ITV soap from 1994 until his passing last year.

The beloved actor sadly passed away on December 15, 2023, at the age of 77 after a long illness, prompting heartfelt tributes from many of his co-stars.

Following his death, Emmerdale bosses announced that a funeral episode would be aired for the much-adored Zak Dingle.

Cain and Belle Dingle

Cain and Belle Dingle discuss Zak (Image: ITV/Emmerdale)

However, Emmerdale fans are bracing themselves for bad news about Zak, with one viewer writing on X: "Zak's death imminent. That's gonna be a sad episode #Emmerdale."

A second stated: "Zak is struggling to get up the stairs at Debbie’s. The beginning of the end of Zak Dingle #Emmerdale."

A third guessed: "Aw this is the start of the final goodbye to Zak. I'm not ready", while another added: "It will be Zak’s death soon", added another.

Emmerdale airs weekdays at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX

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