SAD NEWS: ITV Emmerdale Issues HEARTBREAKING UPDATE about actress Debbie Dingle, Leaving Fans Deeply SADDENED

Emmerdale has delivered a significant update regarding soap favourite Debbie Dingle – and it’s disappointing news for fans.

The character, portrayed by Charley Webb, first appeared on the ITV soap in 2002 as the daughter of Cain (Jeff Hordley) and Charity (Emma Atkins).

It’s safe to say Debbie quickly established herself as a beloved character amongst viewers. Moreover, throughout the years, she became central to numerous major storylines.

From her controversial love affairs to her stint behind bars, Debbie’s journey in the Dales was packed with excitement, reports the Daily Star.

Nevertheless, in 2021, Debbie departed the village for Scotland – and hasn’t returned since.

She was notably absent from her grandfather Zak’s funeral at the close of last year.

The character received a mention earlier this year during daughter Sarah Sugden’s (Katie Hill) pregnancy and cancer plot, when viewers learned that Debbie had relocated to Australia with an unknown partner named Chris.

Viewers will recall that Sarah embarked on IVF treatment but was devastated by a cervical cancer diagnosis. Consequently, Debbie’s mother Charity volunteered to be Sarah’s surrogate.

Yet, in Monday’s episode (August 18), the soap provided a crucial development when Debbie telephoned Cain.

During their conversation, he remarked: “I’m surprised to hear from you to be honest Debs.” He then added: “I wanna see you too, but I can’t just drop everything and fly out to Australia.”

However, the soap’s latest news has left fans disappointed as they had hoped she would return to the village. On an Emmerdale Facebook fan page, one viewer posted: “Debbie mention tonight.”

Another commented: “Was hoping she was ringing him to say she as coming back.” A third added: “It’s so frustrating, they should just recast the character.”