After an illustrious 33-year tenure, Lynne McGranger has announced she will be leaving the iconic Australian soap opera, Home and Away.
The 72-year-old actress, best known for her portrayal of Irene Roberts, expressed mixed emotions when sharing the news about her upcoming exit.
“After almost 33 years in my dream role and working every day 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.”
She also extended gratitude to the production crew, writers, and fans for their unwavering support and dedication to her character over the years.
“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.”
Lynne’s final scenes in Home and Away are slated to air in August 2025.
The actress – who is now officially the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama series – first took over the role of Irene from Jacqy Phillips in 1993.
Since then, Irene has evolved from a troubled alcoholic seeking to reconnect with her daughter into a resilient pillar of the Summer Bay community.
She’s played a key role in some of Home and Away’s most dramatic storylines; from her struggles with alcoholism and a breast cancer diagnosis to discovering a long-lost son.
Not to mention old Irene has also endured a ferry disaster, a bomb explosion, a plane crash, and even a wrongful imprisonment for a murder she didn’t commit.
Home and Away’s Executive Producer, Julie McGauran, sang Lynne’s praises after the news of her departure was announced.
“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.”
Watch Home and Away at 7pm Monday to Thursday on Channel 7 and 7plus.
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