Original Tina Dingle Jacqueline Pirie responds to Emmerdale recast: 'They didn't ask me'

Last week in Emmerdale, the Dingles got a big surprise when Tina Dingle returned during Zak Dingle‘s funeral. Jacqueline Pirie, who played Tina during the 90s, has responded to the role being recast.

Now played by Brassic star Samantha Power, Tina caused a stir with her cutting remarks and eagerness to get her hands on the Dingle house.

But viewers were left wondering why the original actress hadn’t returned and now Jacqueline has had her say.

Tina arrived during Zak’s funeral (Credit: ITV)

Tina Dingle returns

During Thursday’s episode, the Dingles came together to say goodbye to patriarch Zak. Returning to the house to bury Zak, the family were shocked to see Tina.

Tina, who is the daughter of Zak and Nellie Dingle, hadn’t been seen in the Dales since 1996. But it emerged that she has stayed in contact with Mandy over the years.

The returning Dingle went in for the kill as she proceeded to insult her family – labelling most of them “ex-cons” and calling her brother Sam, thick.

For the latter crime, Sam’s partner Lydia pushed Tina into the mud, resulting in cheers from the rest of the family.

It also came to light that Tina was after a share of the Dingle property, but Lydia informed her that the house had been left to Belle, Sam and Cain.

A furious Tina ended up being carted away by police, as she was wearing an ankle tag and was in breach of her release conditions.

Tina Dingle was involved with Frank Tate when Jacqueline played her (Credit: ITV/Shutterstock)

Jacqueline Pirie responds to Tina Dingle recast

Having played Tina Dingle in Emmerdale between 1994 and 1996, fans questioned whether Jacqueline had been approached first.

Taking to X, Jacqueline wrote: “So many questions regarding Tina Dingle’s return. Great character, great show. I wish @sampower_sam all the best, I loved playing her, I’m sure she will too, great cast to be a part of and, no… they didn’t ask me #emmerdale #tinadingle #dingle.”

Samantha Power responded to the tweet and wrote: “Thanks so much Jacqueline! Very kind xxx.”

Fans added their disappointment at the news, with one writing: “No disrespect to the actor taking over here at all, but if it’s a big return (one off) like this – as a fan we all really want to see the original actor – more impact – Jacqueline you were amazing. Sad that you didn’t get asked to at least do a cameo.”

Another fan added: “I assumed they’d asked you, can’t understand their reasons as to why they didn’t as it would have made much more sense.”

Tina is now played by Samantha Power (Credit: ITV)

Samantha Power speaks out

Asked if she ever watched the original Tina, Samantha replied: “Yes! I absolutely do remember Jaqueline who played Tina. She was absolutely fantastic, I remember her character vividly. So I am very lucky to get the chance to pick up where she left off.

“My husband said he had never known me to be this nervous! My first scene on my first day was at the graveside with all the Dingles. That’s a lot, right? Luckily everyone was so nice and welcoming.

“I have to say a special shout out to Lisa Riley, the nicest human being. When I met her at the screen test I felt so safe. She couldn’t have been more giving and supportive and encouraging and that continued daily on set. I loved working with her.”

Read more: The life and loves of Chas Dingle

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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