Iconic Home and Away star Lynne McGranger will farewell the show and her character Irene after an incredible 33 years in Summer Bay. Lynne will leave the hit soap later in the year, with Seven promising an “emotional exit” that “cannot be missed”.
Fans have been left heartbroken by the news, with many saying she will be “dearly missed”. Some, who have stuck around since day one, are preparing for an emotional farewell.
Lynne McGranger leaves Home and Away after almost 33 years
Lynne, who is the longest-serving female actor on an Australian drama series, said in a statement: “After almost 33 years in my dream role and working everyday with people who I love, respect and whom I now consider family, it’s bittersweet to be closing the chapter on what has been the best and longest gig of my life.
“I am forever grateful to the best production crew in the world and to our genius writers – whose doors are always open – for everything they have done for Irene over the past 33-odd years, and I am so proud of the storyline which will see Irene out of the Bay. Above all, a massive, heartfelt thank you to the fans for your continued love and support.”
The Logie-nominated star has been on the show since her on-screen debut in 1993, where Irene, a recovered alcoholic, returned to Summer Bay after having turned her life around and hoping to reconnect with her daughter Fin (Tina Thomsen). Since then she has become one of the most popular characters on the soap and has been at the centre of some of the show’s biggest storylines.
TV Week ranked Irene as the second Greatest Australian TV Character Of All Time, as voted by readers in a 2023 poll.
Home and Away’s Executive Producer, Julie McGauran said: “What a pure joy and privilege it has been for all at Home and Away to work with the wonderfully talented, witty, funny and kind Lynne McGranger. Lynne’s extraordinary portrayal of down-to-earth Irene Roberts is why the character is held with such great affection by fans around the world. Lynne will always be a much-loved member of the Home and Away family, her friendship to all is truly cherished and we wish her all the best for what’s next in her bright, bright future.”
Lynne will finish filming at the end of March, but Irene will still appear on the show for many more months. Irene returns to the show this week after taking a six-month hiatus for her comedy stage-show, The Grandparents Club.
After she finishes filming, Lynne will take some downtime and then return to the stage with a brand-new Grandparents Club tour.
Home and Away fans heartbroken over Irene’s departure
Fans took to social media to share their heartbreak over Lynne’s departure, with one viewer writing, “Oh that is so sad to hear…I have been watching since day 1 and Irene is such a pivotal character and we love her. We will miss you Lynne, but thank you so much for what you have contributed to this amazing show….better get my tissues ready.”
“Oh how sad for her fans,” another said. “‘Irene’…you will be so missed. Lynne…thank you for entertaining us for so long. Whatever your future is I wish you success happiness and a whole lot of laughter and smiles.”
“Omg 😭 I have loved watching Lynne,” a third said. “Thank you for all years of Irene you’ve shared with us. Best wishes for the future.”
“She’s always played a great part,” someone else said. “Will miss the ‘listen here girlie’.”
“So sad to see you go Lynne,” another wrote. “Have grown up as a little girl watching you to now being a mum! It’s been such a pleasure ❤️ enjoy the time away from the TV screens and know how much joy you’ve bought to many people over the years .. legend x.”
“‘Now listen here girly’ you are going to be missed soooo much,” one fan added. “Have loved spending the past 33 years with Irene on the show. Just hope they send you off in a good way for a possible visit back to the bay. All the very best for the next chapter.”