Emmerdale is set to launch an exciting new digital feature, Dingle Court, bringing fans closer to their favorite characters. Starting on Sunday 19th July, the first episode will premiere on the official Emmerdale YouTube channel, with new episodes releasing weekly thereafter.
What Is Dingle Court?
Dingle Court takes viewers straight to the heart of the iconic Dingle family table. In each episode, two cast members will sit down to debate and discuss an array of lighthearted, everyday topics - ranging from the mundane to the bizarre. No topic is off-limits.
While the feature will be kicked off by the heads of the family, Jeff Hordley (Cain Dingle) and Eden Taylor-Draper (Belle Dingle), the door is open for any cast member - Dingle or otherwise - to take a seat and join the conversation.
A Tribute to Zak Dingle
The ITV soap has also released a first look promo to get fans excited. For many viewers, it's a welcome throwback to the days of Zak Dingle who was often head judge in the Dingle Court sessions. A Dingle Court is a traditional family gathering in Emmerdale used to interrogate, punish, or decide the fate of a family member who has broken the Dingle code.
The most prominent Dingle Court featuring Zak occurred in June 2023. In these scenes, Zak made a brief return to the village to help the family decide whether to forgive or banish Caleb Miligan. This was after it was revealed he had ulterior, manipulative motives against the Dingles and Tates. Despite the family's deep-seated anger, a vote ultimately allowed Caleb to stay.
Remembering Steve Halliwell
It could be seen as a touching tribute to the late Steve Halliwell who played the beloved Zak Dingle. He died in 2023, at the age of 77. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones, at St James's Hospital in Leeds and Wheatfield Hospice. For nearly three decades, Halliwell was a beloved fixture on the long-running ITV soap. Following his passing, producers officially wrote the character of Zak Dingle out of the show in late 2024, with scenes paying tribute to the legendary character.
How to Watch
Emmerdale airs on weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and is available to stream on ITVX and YouTube from 7am.
