British Soap Awards viewers were in tears after seeing Emmerdale star Jeff Hordley break down during the In Memoriam section of the evening

Emmerdale fans were moved by Jeff Hordley’s response at the British Soap Awards on Thursday night (June 5). The ceremony, which took place at the Hackney Empire in London on Saturday night (May 31), was broadcast five days later.

Despite knowing that EastEnders had swept the board, many viewers were keen to watch the event unfold. Loose Women’s Jane McDonald returned as host for the second time, with the awards having been skipped in 2024.

Emmerdale secured just one award, with Amelia Flanagan winning Best Young Performer for her portrayal of April Windsor, daughter of police officer Donna Windsor and chef Marlon Dingle, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Jeff Hordley

Jeff Hordley was emotional as a tribute was paid to his former co-star (Image: ITV)A poignant moment came during the In Memoriam segment, honouring soap legends who have passed away.

This year, tributes were paid to Meg Johnson, Kenneth Cope and Anita Carey, accompanied by a touching piano instrumental.

The final tribute was to Emmerdale stalwart Steve Halliwell, who died two years ago aged 77.

Halliwell made his mark in the 1980s with regular roles in shows like Coronation Street and All Creatures Great and Small.

However, he is best remembered for his role as Zak Dingle in Emmerdale, appearing in over 2,400 episodes before his death.

The beloved actor’s tribute moved Jeff, who portrays Zak’s son Cain Dingle, to tears in the audience.

Zak Dingle Emmerdale

Steve Halliwell played Zak Dingle (Image: ITV)
Viewers at home took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their condolences to Jeff and pay tribute to Steve.

One viewer remarked: “Aww, you could see at the end there seeing Steve affected Jeff #SoapAwards. A second added: “#soapawards Jeff crying over Steve Halliwell. ”

Another posted: “Steve Halliwell. I was so sad when I found out he’d died. Zak Dingle was such a legend.”

A forth shared: “Broke me that steve halliwell with Jeff hordley.” And: “Awww Jeff was getting emotional watching Steve Halliwell clip. #Emmerdale #britishsoapawards.”