After more than three decades as one of Summer Bay’s most recognisable faces, Lynne McGranger has said goodbye to Home and Away and her iconic character, Irene Roberts.
Tuesday night’s emotional episode marked the end of a 33-year era, with Irene leaving the Bay “with a bang” after learning she had Alzheimer’s disease. The character, who first appeared in 1993, has been a cornerstone of the long-running soap, taking in countless foster children and playing a central role in some of its biggest storylines.
Over the years, Irene has battled alcoholism, fought breast cancer, discovered a long-lost son, survived ferry and plane crashes, endured bomb blasts and even spent time behind bars for a crime she didn’t commit.
Her farewell was far gentler. The episode centred on a party where Summer Bay locals gathered to say goodbye, including long-time castmates Ray Meagher (Alf Stewart), Ada Nicodemou (Leah Patterson) and Georgie Parker (Roo Stewart). The most poignant moment came when Irene shared a teary goodbye with John Palmer (Shane Withington), gifting him a ticket to Paris and urging him to meet her at the Eiffel Tower.
As she was driven out of town, Irene’s parting words rang out: “Most importantly, take care of each other. At the end of the day, that’s what matters. Friends and family. No regrets, love. Life’s too short.”
Fans flooded social media with tributes, many in tears at the understated send-off. “Beautiful ending… had me in tears,” one viewer wrote. “Loved that farewell. Very fitting for Irene,” another said. Others, however, voiced disappointment that more former cast members didn’t return for the episode, noting Irene’s long history of foster children and storylines. “I’m a crier but this episode left me cold,” wrote one viewer. “Surely some of the hundreds who have lived with Irene could have turned up for the party. Disappointed.”
“I cried like anything but would have loved to see and was waiting for previous cast members to make an appearance rather than flashbacks. All her foster kids and more. The Smiths. And the rest,” wrote another.
For McGranger, the goodbye was equally emotional. “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 said.
The actress, who this month won the coveted Gold Logie and was recently named the second Greatest Australian TV Character of All Time by TV Week readers, thanked the show’s writers, crew and devoted fans for their support.
“Above all, a massive, heartfelt thank you to the fans for your continued love and support,” she said.
While Irene may have left Summer Bay, her place in Home and Away history – and in the hearts of viewers – is assured.
Images: Channel 7
