enthusiasts were moved by 's response at the British Soap Awards on Thursday night (June 5). The event, which took place at the Hackney Empire in London on Saturday night (May 31), was broadcast five days later. Despite EastEnders' dominance of the awards, many viewers were keen to see how the evening unfolded.

Loose Women's Jane McDonald returned as host for the second time, with the ceremony bypassing 2024. Emmerdale secured only one accolade that night, 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. A poignant moment came during the In Memoriam segment, honouring soap legends who have passed away. This year, Meg Johnson, Kenneth Cope and Anita Carey were remembered as a pianist played a touching instrumental piece.

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

In the 1980s, Steve made regular appearances in shows like Coronation Street and All Creatures Great and Small.

His most memorable role began in 1994 as the much-loved Zak Dingle on Emmerdale, appearing in over 2,400 episodes before his death.

The heartfelt tribute from the popular actor caused Jeff, an Oldham native who portrays Zak's son Cain Dingle, to shed tears in the audience.

Viewers at home took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their condolences to Jeff and pay tribute to Steve.

@AmySian1993 remarked: "Aww, you could see at the end there seeing Steve affected Jeff #SoapAwards. @MissFee85 added: "#soapawards Jeff crying over Steve Halliwell. "@RyanSoapKing25 posted: "Steve Halliwell.

I was so sad when I found out he'd died. Zak Dingle was such a legend.

" @jennyluv__ shared: "Broke me that steve halliwell with Jeff hordley. "@natashate1983 noted: "Awww Jeff was getting emotional watching Steve Halliwell clip.

#Emmerdale #britishsoapawards. ".