After more than three decades on Home and Away, Lynne McGranger is preparing to take her final bow as the beloved Irene Roberts in 2025, leaving fans both nostalgic and emotional.

For 33 years, McGranger has been a cornerstone of Australian television, embodying a character that has touched countless lives with her warmth, strength, and resilience.

Yet, while her professional accomplishments are monumental, Lynne’s greatest pride comes from her private life, her enduring love story, and her remarkable family.

The End of an Era: Saying Goodbye to Irene Roberts

Lynne McGranger joined Home and Away in what was initially supposed to be a brief three-month stint. She had no idea that her portrayal of Irene Roberts would become iconic, lasting for 33 unforgettable years. Throughout her tenure, she won a Gold Logie, solidifying her status as one of the show’s most enduring stars.

Fans can expect a heartfelt farewell in 2025, as Irene Roberts’ storyline reaches its conclusion. McGranger has shared glimpses behind the scenes, offering fans rare insights into her long journey on set. From pivotal family drama to community storylines, Irene has been a character who embodied compassion and resilience, qualities that have mirrored McGranger’s own persona both on and off the screen.Returning to Her Roots: The Stage Beckons

While this marks the end of her tenure on Home and Away, McGranger is far from retiring. The actress is set to return to her musical roots, touring the country with The Grandparents Club. This new venture allows her to reconnect with her passion for performance while engaging audiences in a more intimate setting, proving that her creative spirit remains as vibrant as ever.

“While I’m incredibly proud of my career on Home and Away, there’s nothing quite like being back on stage,” McGranger shared. “It’s thrilling to be able to travel, meet fans in person, and embrace a different kind of storytelling.”

A Love Story Spanning Over 40 Years

Though Lynne has captivated audiences with her performances, the most enduring aspect of her life has been her private love story. In 1984, she met Paul McWaters, a man who would become her partner for over four decades. Remarkably, the couple has remained together without marrying, yet their bond has been unshakable.

Lynne recounted a memorable moment from their early relationship in a 2014 interview: after a casual dinner, she invited Paul to her home—and he never left. “Happy anniversary to my partner in crime! 36 years!! Where the hell did that go? Thanks for the laughs, baby. Love you,” she later posted on Instagram, offering fans a glimpse of the deep affection that has sustained their partnership for decades.

Their relationship defies convention, proving that commitment is defined by connection, not by a marriage certificate. Over the years, they have navigated life’s highs and lows together, building a family and supporting each other’s ambitions with unwavering loyalty.

Parenthood and Family Life

Lynne and Paul’s devotion extended to their family life, welcoming their only child, Clancy McWaters, in 1991. Lynne has often spoken about Paul’s role as a hands-on parent during her early years on Home and Away.

“He would do the reading, take her to ballet, to netball. He loved it,” McGranger reflected, highlighting the balance that allowed her to pursue a burgeoning acting career while ensuring Clancy had a nurturing upbringing.

Now 34, Clancy is an accomplished pilates and yoga instructor in Sydney, with a deep passion for dance. She is what her mother proudly describes as a “triple threat,” skilled in singing, dancing, and acting. Though she has not pursued a full acting career, Clancy did make a cameo appearance on Home and Away, a nod to her mother’s enduring legacy.

In 2023, Clancy married her soulmate, Luke Dickson. In an exclusive interview, she spoke about how her parents’ unconventional approach shaped her perspective on family and gender roles.

“Mum and Dad—they’re not married—were quite different to other families. Mum was the main breadwinner, and it’s been cool because I’ve been raised with the belief that it doesn’t have to be that way where the woman stays at home and men go to work. I’ve got two awesome role models,” Clancy explained, highlighting how Lynne and Paul’s partnership has served as an example of equality, respect, and shared responsibility.

Behind the Scenes: Balancing Career and Family

Lynne’s journey on Home and Away required a delicate balance between a demanding career and family responsibilities. Despite the long hours on set and the pressures of television fame, she maintained a strong focus on nurturing her family. This dedication extended to keeping her private life grounded while navigating the highs and lows of celebrity.

Fans have often admired how Lynne has stayed true to herself, remaining approachable and authentic even as she achieved unprecedented success. She frequently shares glimpses of her home life, behind-the-scenes moments on set, and celebrations with her loved ones, allowing fans to feel connected to her beyond the screen.

Reflections on a Legacy

As Lynne prepares to exit Home and Away, her legacy is undeniable. She leaves behind a character that has influenced generations, a body of work that continues to inspire aspiring actors, and a personal story that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Her career demonstrates the power of perseverance, adaptability, and heart. From a three-month contract to a 33-year tenure, Lynne McGranger has proven that dedication and passion can create lasting impact. Her farewell is not just the end of an era for fans of Home and Away, but a celebration of a life lived with purpose, love, and unwavering commitment.

Looking Forward: New Horizons

Even as one chapter closes, another opens. The Grandparents Club tour allows McGranger to reconnect with audiences in a more personal and interactive way. Her plans reflect a desire to embrace new challenges, explore her musical roots, and continue contributing to Australia’s rich performing arts landscape.

Fans can expect to see her vibrant energy, stage presence, and signature warmth shine as she takes on this next adventure. The tour also provides an opportunity for McGranger to showcase her versatility as an artist, demonstrating that creativity knows no bounds, even after decades of success on television.

A Heartfelt Farewell

As the curtain prepares to fall on Lynne McGranger’s time as Irene Roberts, the outpouring of love and admiration from fans is palpable. Social media has been flooded with tributes, highlighting the character’s impact on viewers and the actress’s ability to inspire.

McGranger’s farewell is more than a professional milestone—it is a testament to a life enriched by love, family, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. Her personal story, alongside her 40-year relationship with Paul and her family’s support, adds depth and context to her public persona, making her exit from Home and Away both poignant and celebratory.

For over three decades, Lynne McGranger has been the heart of Home and Away. As she bids farewell to the show and steps into new ventures, fans can reflect on her enduring legacy, the love she shares with her family, and the inspiration she provides both on and off the screen. Her story reminds us that behind every iconic character lies a life filled with dedication, passion, and love—and Lynne McGranger’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary.