The Emmerdale cast has paid tribute to Steve Halliwell after his family announced his death.
Halliwell, who played Zak Dingle in the Yorkshire soap, spent 29 years on the show and his cast-mates have broken their silence on his passing.
Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, wrote on Instagram: "My dearest Steve….love you so much. You are now finally at peace. Thank you for years of laughter, you were still laughing right up to the end.
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"Adored, loved, respected by us all, a LEGEND in my eyes that’s for sure-we have stories and memories to last for many more years to come. Sleep well Stevie-our prayers of strength go to Charlotte, Val and Angelina at this really difficult time…our extended family... 'That boy from Bury did good'."
Hayley Tamaddon, who played Del Dingle, added: "This is sad news. He was a wonderful man. We had many a giggle together when I was in the show. The Dingles have lost a hero."
Adam Thomas took to his Instagram story to repost a photo of Halliwell and wrote: "Wow…got me this one! What a lovely man. Sleep well."
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"He was so amazing. Always gave the best advice and had so many stories to tell," added Amelia Flanagan, who plays Marlon’s (Mark Charnock) daughter, April.
The actor passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, ITV reported.
The statement read: "It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that Emmerdale can confirm that Steve Halliwell, our beloved Zak Dingle, has peacefully passed away.
"All our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones through this very difficult time, and we’d request that their privacy is respected as they grieve for his loss.
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"Steve will forever be synonymous with Emmerdale. The proud defender and head of the Dingle family. Heart and humour in all he did, it has been and always will be impossible not to smile when you think of him."
His family added: "He went to sleep, peacefully with his loved ones around him. He was making us laugh to the end.
"The most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for, family was everything to him."
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They paid tribute to staff at St James' Hospital in Leeds and Wheatfield Hospice 'for their love and kindness in his final days'.
"He didn't want sadness, just to rejoice in a life well lived," the statement added.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677
Topics: Celebrity, ITV, Emmerdale, TV And Film
Rhiannon Ingle