Next week, the village is set to be rocked by the devastating news of Zack Dingle’s death. His passing comes as a shock to everyone, especially since it occurs just ten months after the loss of Steve Halliwell, who was last seen on screen in June 2023. Coincidentally, next week marks both Emmerdale’s 52nd anniversary and the 30th anniversary of Zack’s debut, which originally aired on October 20, 1994. Recently, Zack had been struggling with health issues while living with his granddaughter Debbie in Scotland. After a visit from Cain, who had just returned to the village, Moira receives the heartbreaking call from Debbie about Zack’s passing.Cain is left reeling, as he had just seen Zack and was assured that he would be okay. Jeff Hordley, who plays Cain, shares that the news hits hard, making it feel surreal, like losing someone unexpectedly. The following episode features Cain delivering the news to the rest of the Dingle family, each processing their grief in different ways. They gather at Wishing Well Cottage for support as they come to terms with their loss.

In the aftermath, Cain and Sam decide to drive to Scotland to bring Zack’s body home, with family and friends gathering to see them off on this somber journey. Later in the week, the community will come together at the Woolpack for a fitting farewell, filled with typical Dingle chaos and heartfelt moments. Jeff notes that filming this episode was a blend of sorrow and laughter, as they honored Zack’s character while keeping the atmosphere light-hearted—something Zack would have wanted.

In a poignant tribute, music—Zack’s passion—plays a significant role in the farewell, adding a nostalgic layer to the episode. Viewers can expect a touching and humorous sendoff as the Dingle family shares memories and raises a toast to Zack’s legacy. However, just as they think they have found some closure, a surprising twist occurs at Zack’s graveside when a long-lost relative appears, stirring up tension among the Dingles.

While dealing with the family’s grief, Moira faces her own challenges. She’s been living with a non-cancerous brain tumor and is presented with an opportunity for surgery. As her condition worsens, she must make a crucial decision about whether to proceed with the operation. In the midst of this turmoil, she decides to keep the news from Cain, wanting to spare him the added stress of her health concerns during such a difficult time.

Meanwhile, Billy is caught up in his own turmoil as he grapples with his criminal activities in an effort to support his family. Having participated in illegal boxing matches, he confides in Mack about needing to continue despite the dangers. As he struggles with the morality of his choices, he finds himself increasingly entangled in a web of crime, raising questions about his motivations.

In another storyline, Will’s relationship with Kim takes a surprising turn. Despite their recent conflicts, Will finds himself comforting Kim after a shared loss, leading to unexpected emotions between them. As their complicated history unfolds, Kim’s invitation to Gabby to move back in stirs further tension, leaving Will questioning her true intentions.

Ruby also faces a shocking revelation regarding her estranged mother, Helen. After receiving a call from the hospital about her mother’s terminal condition, Ruby learns that Caleb had been involved in a financial arrangement with Helen prior to her death. This leads Ruby on a quest for closure as she grapples with the ashes of her mother and the mystery surrounding Helen’s final wishes.

As the community navigates these significant losses and shocking turns, viewers can expect a week filled with heartfelt moments, unexpected reunions, and the typical drama that defines Emmerdale. Don’t miss out on all the emotional twists and turns!