Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley pays tribute to Steve Halliwell with RadioTimes.com Soap Awards win

As a long-time fan of Emmerdale and an avid supporter of British soap operas, I was absolutely thrilled to hear that Lisa Riley has won the Best Comedy Performance award at this year’s National Television Awards. Although she couldn’t be there in person due to a previously scheduled holiday, her heartfelt acceptance speech was truly touching and sincere.


The actor-comedian was unable to make it to the ceremony personally because of a prior vacation arrangement, but instead sent a touching video message filmed on the Emmerdale set, conveying heartfelt gratitude to everyone who had cast their votes for her.

“I’m deeply grateful, truly appreciative, and almost speechless for winning the Best Comedy Performance award,” she expressed. “To be honest, I seldom consider myself as funny. However, the credit goes to the brilliant writing team at Emmerdale.”

“I believe they consume three glasses of Malbec while writing for Mandy. Yet, I find immense pleasure in portraying this character. Each day brings new joy to me as I embrace the role, and collaborating with talented comedy actors like Dominic Brunt, who plays Paddy, is truly a delight.”

“I’m really blessed [and] I’m only funny because they’re funny – that’s the truth of it, really.”

Riley made her debut on the soap opera from 1995 to 2001, then took a long break until Mandy Dingle returned in 2019.

During both periods, she had the opportunity to collaborate closely with the late Halliwell, who portrayed Uncle Zak Dingle on the show for nearly three decades. Regrettably, he passed away towards the end of last year following a prolonged illness.

In her speech during the acceptance ceremony, Riley reminisced: “Steve Halliwell, or better known as Uncle Zak, is the real comedy legend in my eyes. His guidance and instruction in the art of comedy when I was young have had a profound impact on me.”

Emmerdale’s Lisa Riley pays tribute to Steve Halliwell with RadioTimes.com Soap Awards win

I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who cast their votes in my favor. However, this accolade is truly a tribute to the exceptional Steve Halliwell.

Zak Dingle, who wasn’t officially written off the soap opera after Halliwell’s death, will reportedly pass away off-camera. A touching funeral ceremony is planned in his honor.

I’ve got some sad news to share as the producer of Emmerdale. You may already be aware that Steve, and the beloved character of Zak Dingle, is no longer with us. In the upcoming months, we’ll be remembering Zak and paying our respects through a Dingle funeral.

Many individuals involved in producing the show, not to mention our long-time viewers, will find it extremely challenging to see Zak go. However, it will be a highly appropriate farewell for this beloved character.

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV. Stream on ITVX.

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2024-07-24 14:33