Emmerdale aired the death of beloved dog Monty on Wednesday (August 5), as Cain Dingle (Jeff Hordley) broke down in an emotional tribute to his late father, Zak Dingle (Steve Halliwell).
Monty's Final Moments
Monty, who first appeared in the Dales in 2018 as a companion for Zak after the death of Irish Wolfhound Alfie, had been diagnosed with terminal cancer last month. His condition deteriorated quickly, and Rhona Goskirk (Zoe Henry) confirmed the cancer had likely spread.
On Wednesday, Cain brought Monty to the vet after the family decided it was time to put him to sleep. At Wishing Well, Lydia (Karen Blick), Sam (James Hooton), Belle (Eden Taylor-Draper), and Kammy (Shebz Miah) stayed home to comfort Kyle and Isaac, leaving Cain alone with Monty as Rhona administered the medication.
Cain's Tribute to Zak
As Cain embraced Monty, he wept and delivered a tribute to his father, whose on-screen death was revealed on October 14, 2024. In real life, Steve Halliwell died aged 77 on December 15, 2023.
"Remember what I said, you are a good boy, and I know my dad was always grateful for having you, always," Cain said. He continued: "When you get up there, you tell him how much we love him and that we miss him loads. And you make sure he takes you for plenty of walks, just like old times."
As Cain wept, he added: "We love you, you scruffy old thing," before confirming to Rhona that Monty had died.
Viewers' Reactions
Emmerdale viewers were moved to tears by the scene. One fan posted on X: "Not #Emmerdale getting me teary at midday," while another said: "Aw Monty, dog deaths are always so much more sad #Emmerdale."
A third viewer wrote: "Christ #emmerdale has me bawling a beautiful episode," and another added: "#Emmerdale poor Monty. I could barely watch. But it's just a tv show and he's fine really."
One devoted viewer explained: "Me and my mum have just cried our eyes out at #Emmerdale. Saying goodbye to your dog is soul destroying." Another added: "When Monty gave Cain his paw I was BROKEN. Sobbed like a baby. Dogs really are the most precious souls."
Emmerdale airs weekdays on ITV and ITVX.
