**Emmerdale Spoiler: Belle Paternity Twist as Fans Predict DNA Mix-Up Will ‘Rock Zak’s Funeral’**
Emmerdale fans are speculating that Tom King is set to thwart his wife Belle’s attempts to attend her father Zak’s funeral. Following Steve Halliwell’s tragic death last year, viewers believe Belle Dingle is in for more turmoil as a DNA twist is expected to shake up the village.
Belle has been enduring abuse from her husband Tom King, and fans are bracing for another devastating blow when she is informed of her father Zak Dingle’s passing. Observant viewers are convinced Tom will prevent Belle from attending the funeral once the news is revealed. However, some fans have taken their theories even further, suggesting that Belle might be told Zak wasn’t her biological father, or that Tom will manipulate her into believing this falsehood.
This wouldn’t be the first time Emmerdale has featured a DNA shocker. Previously, it was unveiled that Daz Spencer was Amelia’s biological father, not Dan, who she had believed shared her DNA. Fans have taken to social media to discuss their predictions. One viewer speculated, “What are the odds that Zak’s death is coming and Tom will stop Belle from going to the funeral in Scotland?” Another quickly replied, “I feel like he’ll either be revealed as not her real dad at the funeral, or Tom will convince her he’s not biologically related to her after Zak dies, basically gaslighting her.”
Some viewers even pondered the idea of Tom faking a birth certificate with another man’s name on it. Another user added, “With Belle’s looks, I think Lisa must have been with someone other than Zak since she’s not dark-haired like the rest of the Dingles.”
Steve Halliwell, who portrayed Zak, passed away in December 2023 at the age of 77 after battling numerous health issues. In a heartfelt statement, his family confirmed he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones, stating, “He was making us laugh until the end, the most amazing father and grandfather you could ever wish for. Family was everything to him.”
Emmerdale stars also paid tribute, with James Hooton, known for playing Steve’s onscreen son Sam Dingle for over 25 years, posting, “Steve Halliwell was the first person I met when I walked into the Emmerdale studios, and we remained friends until the end.” Lisa Riley, who plays Mandy Dingle, added, “From day one, he took me under his wing and guided me on and off set. We’ll miss you, mate. Rest well, Steven, and leave one in the pump for me.”
As the storyline unfolds, viewers are eager to see how Belle navigates this new twist and whether she will uncover the truth about her paternity amid her grief.
