After more than three decades of love, laughter, heartbreak, and resilience, Home and Away prepares to bid farewell to one of its most cherished characters. Next week, UK viewers

will witness Irene Roberts’ emotional exit from Summer Bay — a departure that marks the end of an era. For nearly 33 years, Irene, portrayed by Jacquie Purvis, has been the heart and soul of the Bay.

Her warmth, no-nonsense advice, and unwavering loyalty to her friends have made her a cornerstone of the community. Now, after a devastating diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, Irene makes the brave

decision to step away from the only home she’s ever truly known. What follows is an unforgettable farewell — a mix of tears, laughter, and heartfelt goodbyes that will leave fans reeling.

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Just six weeks ago, Irene was confronted with the life-altering news of her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Subtle but worrying lapses in memory — forgetting names, tasks, and even where she worked — became impossible to ignore. Though devastated, Irene refused to let her illness define her future. Instead of retreating into fear, she chose to seize the time she had left with a bold and inspiring plan.

As she flipped through old postcards and photographs, reflecting on dreams she had never realized, her friend Sunny reminded her that there was still time. She didn’t have to surrender to her diagnosis — she could embrace life on her own terms. That encouragement lit a spark in Irene, who soon announced her decision: she would sell the beach house, use the money to travel the world, and create memories while she still could.

Her announcement stunned those closest to her, especially John Palmer, who struggled with the idea of losing his closest confidante. While Leah, Justin, Alf, and Marilyn rallied around her, John’s resistance underscored the depth of their friendship — a bond that would be tested right up to the moment she left.

Bringing Forward the Goodbye

Initially, Irene planned to leave in six weeks, but fate had other plans. After forgetting once again that she no longer worked at the diner, Irene faced a harsh reality check. Time was slipping away faster than she anticipated. Determined not to waste another moment, she announced she would leave immediately.

Leah quickly coordinated with her Yabi Creek travel agent contact, but Irene was presented with only two possible departure dates: one in three weeks or one in just three days. Without hesitation, Irene chose the latter. That decision set the stage for a whirlwind of emotions — a community scrambling to prepare a farewell, and Irene herself forced to confront the finality of her choice.

Friends Rally for a Final Farewell

The responsibility of planning the perfect send-off fell to Leah, Justin, Alf, and Marilyn. Each poured their heart into making sure Irene’s final days in Summer Bay would be unforgettable. A grand cake was prepared, a mocktail bar stocked, and Marilyn, in her own quirky way, set up her tarot cards to provide Irene with one last reading.

But while preparations carried on, John struggled. The thought of saying goodbye to his best friend was unbearable, and he isolated himself at the diner, ignoring calls and drowning in grief. It wasn’t until Justin found him and reminded him that regret would weigh heavier than heartbreak that John mustered the courage to attend.

When John finally arrived at the farewell party, Irene’s face lit up. “You big galah,” she told him warmly. “I’m just glad you’re here.” It was a moment that reminded viewers of the unshakable bond between these two friends — a relationship built on years of shared laughter, arguments, and unwavering support.

The Party of a Lifetime

The farewell gathering outside the surf club was a testament to Irene’s impact on Summer Bay. Residents came together to eat, dance, and share memories. Justin and Theo provided the entertainment with a touching duet of Alex Lloyd’s You Were Amazing, a fitting tribute to a woman who had given so much of herself to the community.

John, still emotional, delivered a heartfelt speech. Admitting that he had struggled to find the right words, he ultimately spoke for everyone present: Irene had given them more than they could ever repay. Though none of them wanted her to go, they respected her bravery in chasing her dreams despite the uncertainty of her illness.

Raising his glass, John declared: “To the bravest woman I’ve ever met. We applaud you, Irene Roberts.”

It was a toast that encapsulated the spirit of the evening — bittersweet, proud, and deeply moving.

Letters, Legacies, and Lasting Memories

As the night wound down, Irene quietly handed Alf a bundle of sealed letters, each addressed to the people she loved most. They were to be opened after she had gone, heartfelt reminders for her friends to live fully and treasure the time they had left.

One by one, Irene embraced her closest companions. Leah, unable to hold back tears, admitted that it felt like the end of everything they had shared. Irene’s simple but devastating reply — “That’s because it is, love” — left audiences shattered.

Before leaving, Irene shared one final private moment with John. To his astonishment, she presented him with a plane ticket to Paris, reminding him of his dream to one day sip coffee under the Eiffel Tower. “So you see, it’s not goodbye,” she told him gently. “It’s au revoir.”

Overcome with emotion, John promised he would meet her there “come hell or high water.” It was a beautiful promise — a glimmer of hope amid the heartbreak of her departure.

Irene’s Final Exit

The next morning, Irene returned to her beloved beach house one last time. The walls, now stripped bare, stood as a stark reminder of all she was leaving behind. Taking one final look, she stepped outside where Sunny awaited with a chauffeur’s car to drive her away.

As they passed the “You are now leaving Summer Bay” sign, Sunny asked if she had any regrets. Irene’s answer was simple but profound: “None, love.” She turned toward the camera, breaking the fourth wall in a moment that will surely go down in Home and Away history. “Life’s too short.”

And with that, Irene Roberts — friend, mother figure, and one of the Bay’s most beloved residents — departed after more than three decades on our screens.

A Legacy That Lives On

Irene’s farewell is more than just another soap exit — it’s a cultural moment for Home and Away. Her journey has spanned generations, from guiding troubled teens to navigating her own personal battles. She has been a beacon of strength, compassion, and resilience.

For fans, her departure is a reminder of why Home and Away continues to resonate after all these years: its ability to tell deeply human stories that mirror our own struggles, triumphs, and goodbyes. Irene’s legacy will live on, not only through the characters she leaves behind but also in the hearts of the viewers who grew up with her.

As the Bay waves goodbye, one thing is certain — Irene Roberts may be leaving Summer Bay, but she will never leave us.