Emmerdale legend shares sad news of dad’s death
Emmerdale Sam Dingle star James Hooton announced the passing of his father who battled Alzheimer's disease.
Emmerdale’s James Hooton was supported by his co-stars after announcing a devastating family loss.
The actor, famed for playing Sam Dingle since 1995, shared the news that his father, Kenneth Hooton, has passed away aged 81. Taking to Instagram, the 50-year-old shared the last photo taken of him and his dad.
In the caption, James opened up about his father’s battle with Alzheimer’s and Dementia before his sad passing. He explained that Kenneth was admitted to hospital before spending his final days at a care home in Sutton.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I have to report the passing of my dad, Kenneth Hooton, on Tuesday 16th April, a week before what would have been his 82nd birthday,” James began.
James Hooton announced the passing of his father (Image: ITV)
The soap star continued: “This is the last photo I took with my dad, on the 16th February 2024. He had been in hospital through Christmas and had recently been moved to a new care home in Sutton in Ashfield.
He had Alzheimer’s disease and Vascular Dementia but still recognised me and other family members and friends, right until the end! He lived a life full to the brim with experiences and had no regrets.”
James concluded the post by mentioning the last interaction he had with his dad, saying: “The last time I saw him a few weeks ago, along with his old friend Martin meats, my dad said, ‘I’m in the done it club now’. R.I.P Dad! X.”
A number of James’ Emmerdale co-stars shared their condolences in the comments, with Mandy Dingle star Lisa Riley writing: “So much love and strength.”
Amy Walsh, best known for her role as Tracy Metcalfe, posted: “Awww sending love Jim!” Kevin Mathurin, who portrays Charles Anderson, added: “Condolences, mate.”
James Hooton’s co-star Steve Halliwell passed away in December 2023 (Image: Getty)
While James’ on-screen family members Karen Blick and Eden Taylor-Draper, who portray Lydia and Belle Dingle, commented red heart emojis.
His father’s sad passing comes just months after James bid farewell to his Emmerdale co-star Steve Halliwell, who died in December 2023.
The actor, best known for playing Zak Dingle for more than 25 years on the ITV soap, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at the age of 77. Following news of Steve’s passing, James took to X to pay tribute to his friend as he reflected on their early days on set.
He wrote: “A soap icon and a great friend has passed away today! Steve Halliwell was the first person I met when I walked through the door into the Emmerdale studios and we remained friends until the end! A truly loved character and a strong proud man, RIP Steve you will be sadly missed.”