Emmerdale Dingle icon makes shock return looking completely different - and fans are floored

Emmerdale viewers were left stunned when the identity of the returning Dingle family member was finally disclosed - and she looks entirely different.

This week in the Dales, soap icon Zak Dingle (Steve Halliwell) passed away off-screen. In reality, actor Steve sadly died in December last year at the age of 77.

Due to Steve's passing, the soap's creators have incorporated a death storyline. The news of Zak's demise was confirmed this week, leaving the Dingle family devastated.

In a poignant montage, classical music played as Cain (Jeff Hordley) informed Belle (Eden Taylor-Draper) and Sam (James Hooton) that their father had died at his home in Scotland earlier that day.

As Zak resided in Scotland, Cain and Sam journeyed there to retrieve his body and bring him back to the village. Zak's funeral took place during Thursday's episode (October 17), reports Leeds Live.

However, the plot took an unexpected twist when a long-lost relative appeared at the graveside, surprising the Dingle family. The identity of the returning Dingle was kept hidden from fans - but during the latest episode, it was revealed to be Tina Dingle, Zak's daughter.

Following a memorial at the Woolpack, the Dingles brought Zak's coffin back to Dingle land for burial, as per his wishes. However, the burial was disrupted by the arrival of Sam, Cain and Belle's sister, Tina.

Tina's appearance on screen had dramatically changed since viewers last witnessed her in 1996. Jacqueline Pirie has been substituted by Samantha Power, who is now embodying the character.

Audiences were swift to express their opinions regarding Tina's comeback. In a flurry of excitement to X, the platform formerly recognised as Twitter, a fan exclaimed: "Just watched Zak's funeral episode. The big return was brilliant - one I didn't see coming. A proper traditional Dingle funeral. Happy 30th Anniversary to the Dingle."

Another couldn't hide their astonishment, commenting: "Couldn't believe who it was when I saw them. They've been in another drama before which I also loved.." Meanwhile, a third remarked: "Seen it wow wasn't expecting that return at all it's a good one though."

Joining the conversation, a Reddit user shared: "As for THE return, I'm really, really happy about it. It's long overdue. There's so much potential to mine there. I do kind of wish it was the OG, but you can't have everything I guess."

The new face of Tina, actress Samantha Power, isnt unfamiliar with the spotlight; her roles extend to popular series such as Brassic and BBC's Doctors. Additionally, Power has played parts in Channel 5's Cold Call, led by Sally Lindsay, not to mention appearances on Coronation Street and Holby City.

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm