Who is returning for Zak Dingle’s funeral? From Debbie Dingle to Lisa – all the fan theories so far

A dark cloud is set to fall over the Dingle family farm with the sad news that beloved patriarch and Emmerdale icon Zak has died. In scenes airing next week, the family will learn the shocking news after a call from Debbie, who breaks the tragic news to her devastated relatives.

Sadly, fans will have been expecting the news for some time now – following actor Steve Halliwell’s sad passing late last year. The show has finally caught up to reality, and Zak’s funeral scenes are set to air in the coming weeks.

Emmerdale spoilers: The Dingles learn that Zak has died

But, this being a Dingle family funeral, the event won’t go by without drama of its own. And recent Emmerdale spoilers have confirmed that there will be a surprise face or too at Zak’s funeral.

This was seemingly confirmed by actor Jeff Hordley, who revealed yesterday (Monday, October 7): ‘It’s someone you might know. They’re not going to make things go smoothly for the Dingles.’

But who will be paying the Dingles a visit?

Debbie Dingle

Of all the characters it’d make sense to return for Zak’s funeral, granddaughter Debbie – offspring of Cain and Charity – is a no-brainer.

Unfortunately, due to behind-the-scenes friction between the actress and the soap, Charley Webb’s return to Emmerdale seems unlikely at best.

However, that hasn’t stopped fans from hoping for her return.

“Debbie with a new head. How many heads has Ben Eastenders had so far last count?,” asked one fan, suggesting that producers might re-cast the character.

“Wanna say Debbie but Charley won’t be coming back unless she’s recast which is a shame cos she’s the OG Debbie,” bemoaned another.

Lisa Dingle

Interestingly, Jeff hinted that the returning character could be someone coming back from the dead. While an EastEnders-style resurrection seems unlikely, Zak’s beloved wife Lisa could return in a poignant graveside cameo.

“Maybe the return is Lisa the ghost like when Jack appeared at his funeral but obviously Jane can film a scene in person. I’d love a scene between Lisa and Belle,” suggested one fan.

Emily Kirk

Mild-mannered Emily was the husband of Zak’s late son, Butch. Taking a job at the Post Office, she met and soon warmed to Butch, beginning their sweet romance.

It ended tragically, however, when Butch was fatally injured during a terrible car chase between him and Emily’s protective father, John. Butch and Emily were married on his deathbed, with Butch passing shortly after they said their vows.

Although Emily re-married – to vet Paddy – she remained close to the Dingles. It would make sense if Emily were to return to pay her last respects to beloved father figure Zak.

“If Emily is not the Dingle returning then I don’t want it,” huffed one fan on X.

Kathy Glover

She may not have been a Dingle, but Kathy Glover is an undeniable part of Emmerdale history, with links to all of the soap’s most iconic figures – from Zak himself to Seth, Butch and Alan.

“With Zak’s death and funeral next week, now would have been the right time for a small return for Kathy Glover. She could have spoke about Butch, Seth, Alan and of course come face to face with Kim Tate again,” suggested one hopeful viewer.

Ross Barton

It has already been confirmed that Ross Barton will be returning to the soap later this year. With Debbie unlikely to be returning, and Ross having so many Dingle ties (including son Moses, who he shared with Charity), could this be the character’s foot back in the door?

Read more: Laurel’s many, many mistakes with men in Emmerdale

Emmerdale usually airs weeknights on ITV at 7.30pm.

Classic Emmerdale usually airs every weekday on ITV3 at 6am and 6.30am, plus 1.40pm and 2.10pm.

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