Emmerdale star responds after iconic role recast for Zak Dingle funeral

Emmerdale newcomer and Brassic star Samantha Power has opened up on her new role as Tina Dingle, who was originally played by Jacqueline Pirie, three decades ago

Emmerdale newcomer Samantha Power has opened up about her new role as Tina Dingle after making her surprise arrival on the emotional day of Zak Dingle’s funeral on Thursday night’s tear-jerking episode. Tina is the the daughter of Zak and Nellie Dingle and the sister of Cain, Sam and Belle, who has been part of a harrowing abuse storyline at the hands of Tom King.

Of course, the new Dingle guest stint wasn’t without drama as she tried to get in on the family home. However, it was made clear she wouldn’t be included in Zak’s will. Fans were left in shock as Tina made her grand return, but this time with a new face. The role was previously portrayed by original star Jacqueline Pirie, making her last appearance 28 years ago.

**Samantha made her shock arrival as Tina Dingle during Zak’s funeral** (Image: ITV)

Asked if she had watched the original Tina on the screen, Samantha, who stars in Brassic and Ackley Bridge said: “Yes! I absolutely do remember Jaqueline who played Tina. She was absolutely fantastic, I remember her character vividly. So I am very lucky to get the chance to pick up where she left off.

“My husband said he had never known me to be this nervous! My first scene on my first day was at the graveside with all the Dingles. That’s a lot, right? Luckily everyone was so nice and welcoming.”

**Tina Dingle was originally played by Jacqueline Pirie**

Samantha fit right in on set, giving a special shout out to Lisa Riley. “I have to say a special shout out to Lisa Riley, the nicest human being. When I met her at the screen test I felt so safe. She couldn’t have been more giving and supportive and encouraging and that continued daily on set. I loved working with her.”

Tina was carted off by police for breaching her bail in the show, however, it may not be the last we see of the character, and Samatha. Asked if she wants to make a return following her stint, Samantha said: “Definitely! Emmerdale is an amazing place to work and Tina is just fantastic to play so I would love the opportunity to come back and cause more mischief.”

Original actress Jacqueline addressed the recasting and Tina’s return on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, writing: “So many questions regarding Tina Dingle’s return. Great character, great show. I wish @sampower_sam all the best, I loved playing her, I’m sure she will too, great cast to be a part of and, no… they didn’t ask me #emmerdale #tinadingle #dingle.”