Emmerdale Cain Dingle star teases huge return with five-word response

Jeff Hordley, Emmerdale's own Cain Dingle, has dropped intriguing hints about a surprise return of a family member for Zak Dingle's funeral.

Next week's episodes are set to stir emotions when The Dingles are hit with the heart-wrenching news that Zak (Steve Halliwell) has passed. As Cain, portrayed by Jeff Hordley, breaks the grim news to the clan, a wave of grief descends upon not just the Dingles but also the entire village.

The solemn moments see the Dingles clinging together for solace, with Cain, Sam (James Hooton), and Belle Dingle (Eden Taylor-Draper) sharing poignant memories of their father. His absence sends shockwaves through them all.

As the community gathers to offer their respects, Sam and Cain leave for Scotland in a touching procession to bring Zak back. Chas Dingle (Lucy Pargeter) ensures that the Woolpack becomes a refuge for those in mourning and, later, at Wishing Well Cottage, tributes flow as the Dingles toast to the memory of Zak.

But the day of the funeral brings an unexpected twist when a long-gone relative makes a dramatic appearance, leaving everyone stunned.

Teasing fans, Jeff remarked: "It's someone you might know. They're not going to make things go smoothly for the Dingles. Could it be someone back from the dead? ".

Long-standing actor Jeff Hordley has been bringing Cain to life since March 2000. Reflecting on his experience during the emotional shoot for Zak's send-off, he conveyed: "There's really poignant moments in it.

"And whilst we were filming, we were all focused and giving the script everything it needed."

"But off camera as well and Steve would have enjoyed this, because Steve always liked to have a giggle behind the camera whilst we weren't rolling, we made sure we had some laughs as well."

"Because when we do get together as a group, we do make sure that it's fun to film. What I'm trying to say is that the mood wasn't just downbeat, we were making sure that we were having a laugh, and Steve wouldn't have wanted it any other way."

"Being a Dingle for me, is a source of immense pride. It's something that I still pinch myself when I think about. I'm kind of part of this institutional amazing family that's part of the Emmerdale fabric. So, yeah, I just feel very honoured and very proud. I'm very thankful to be a Dingle."

Emmerdale airs weeknights on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.30pm