Emmerdale fans slam shocking funeral twist amid Belle and Tom’s heartbreaking abuse story

EMMERDALE fans believe a shocking twist could play a part in the heartbreaking plot surrounding Belle Dingle and Tom King’s abuse.

Viewers of the ITV soap opera began speculating that the death of a legendary character would be incorporated into the recent sickening storyline.

Fans will know that the actor who plays Belle’s on-screen father Zak, Steve Halliwell, died last year at the age of 77 following a series of health issues.

His family released a statement at the time noting Steve’s incredible life and legacy.

Emmerdale also released a statement in which they paid tribute to one of the programme’s longest-running characters.

Now, viewers believe that Zak’s on-screen death and funeral will have close links to the current abuse of his daughter Belle at the hands of her vile husband.

Tom has been abusing Belle for months and trying to control a number of elements of her life.

While all this is happening, Zak is staying with Debbie Dingle in Scotland.

Predictions have seen fans speculate that Debbie will return to tell the family of Zak’s death and this will allow Tom to maintain control over Belle.

One fan posted online: “I personally think Debbie will come back to the village and come to Wishing Well Cottage to gather all the Dingles and tell them about Zak.”

This was followed by a shocking theory: “I think they’ll probably find a way to tie Zak’s death to Belle and Tom’s abuse story – maybe Tom will stop Belle from attending Zak’s funeral. (I hope I’m wrong about that!).”

Someone else speculated: “Or more likely, Tom refuses to let her visit Zak when he’s sick, and Zak ends up dying.”

Before a third theory suggested: “Belle blames Tom for not being able to see her father one last time, only for Tom to turn on her, making her think it was all his fault for not being able to see his father”. after Zak while he was still in the village, that it was somehow his fault that he didn’t improve and died.”

The show has yet to address Zak’s character since Steve’s death.

Confirming his death at the time, an Emmerdale spokesperson said: “It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that Emmerdale can confirm that Steve Halliwell, our beloved Zak Dingle, has passed away peacefully.”

“All of our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones during this very difficult time, and we ask that their privacy be respected as they mourn his loss. »

“Steve will forever be synonymous with Emmerdale. The proud defender and leader of the Dingle family. With heart and humour in everything he did, it was and always will be impossible not to smile when you think of him.”