After nearly 33 years on Australian screens, Home and Away is preparing to bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most iconic characters, Irene Roberts. Portrayed by Lynne McGranger since 1993,

Irene has become a cornerstone of the long-running soap, embodying warmth, resilience, and a fierce sense of loyalty that has endeared her to generations of fans. But as the series prepares to close this chapter

, both McGranger and viewers are feeling the weight of saying goodbye.

An End of an Era

Lynne McGranger announced her departure from Home and Away earlier this year, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that has made her the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama series. Over the decades, McGranger has seen the show evolve, navigating countless storylines that have captivated audiences across the nation. Her portrayal of Irene Roberts has been a steady anchor amid the ever-shifting tides of Summer Bay, earning her recognition not only from fans but also from her peers, including a Gold Logie award acknowledging her enduring contribution to Australian television.

Irene’s exit is not merely a standard storyline conclusion; it is a culmination of a deeply emotional and socially relevant narrative. Over recent months, the character has been grappling with an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis—a storyline that McGranger herself played a vital role in shaping. The actress has been candid about her motivation, emphasizing the importance of telling a story that reflects the real-life experiences of countless Australians facing similar challenges.

“This is the first time it is being dealt with at length, out in the open and talked about,” McGranger said, highlighting the groundbreaking nature of the storyline. “So many people now have it. I’m very, very, very proud of it and I think it’s an important story, and it needs to be out there.”

A Bittersweet Farewell

While the narrative explores the challenges of Alzheimer’s, the real-life farewell for McGranger is equally poignant. She acknowledges that stepping away from Irene is both a personal and professional turning point, and one that will resonate profoundly with fans who have grown up alongside the character.

“Wait until you see … just wait,” McGranger teased cryptically when asked about Irene’s final scenes, leaving audiences eager and anxious to witness the emotional send-off. The actress also highlighted the musical accompaniment in Irene’s final moments, paying tribute to singer Jessica Mauboy. “As much as you love sticky date pudding, it’s only when you pour the butterscotch sauce on it that it lifts it to another level, and that is what her song does with Irene’s final scene,” she explained, hinting at the deeply moving impact of the finale.

For many viewers, Irene’s presence has been more than just a television fixture—it has been a constant in their lives. McGranger’s daughter, now 34, has grown up with her mother on the show, a reflection of just how integral the series has been to the family’s life. “She doesn’t remember anything else,” McGranger shared, underscoring the profound personal significance of this farewell.

The Cultural Impact of Irene Roberts

Irene Roberts has always been more than a character; she has been a representation of compassion, resilience, and community spirit. Over the years, her storylines have tackled complex issues, from foster care and family disputes to illness and personal loss. Through it all, Irene has remained a moral center in Summer Bay, often acting as a confidante, mediator, and protector to younger characters navigating turbulent times.

McGranger’s decision to highlight Alzheimer’s through Irene adds another layer to the character’s legacy. By portraying the disease with sensitivity and authenticity, the show sheds light on a condition that affects millions of families in Australia and around the world. Fans and critics alike have praised the series for its willingness to tackle such a challenging topic with care, while McGranger herself takes pride in contributing to this socially important narrative.

“This story needed to be told,” she reiterated. “And I’ve been privileged to play a part in sharing it.”

Preparing Fans for the Goodbye

As the series approaches Irene’s departure, fans are grappling with the emotional weight of the news. Social media has been abuzz with tributes, memories, and speculation about how the character will exit Summer Bay. For many, it’s difficult to imagine the show without her steady presence. McGranger, ever mindful of her audience, encourages viewers to experience Irene’s final storyline with patience and attention, promising that the scenes will resonate deeply.

The actress also hopes that her departure might draw back occasional viewers or even new audiences who may not have followed the series closely in recent years. “I hope fans—or those who haven’t kept up with the serial for some time—might jump on board now and ride the wave home with her, so to speak,” she said.

Life After Irene

While leaving a role that has defined her career is undoubtedly bittersweet, McGranger is looking forward to the next chapter of her life. She acknowledges that the long hours, line memorization, and demanding schedule of a soap opera have been a significant part of her life for decades. With her departure, she anticipates a chance to rest, reflect, and enjoy personal time with family and friends.

“I am excited to have a rest,” she admitted. “I am excited not to have to learn lines every night and work those 14-hour days. I think I will miss the camaraderie. I will miss my great friends who are on the show.”

Despite stepping away, McGranger hints that elements of Irene’s spirit may linger in her own life. She jokes that she may adopt some of Irene’s mannerisms every so often, a testament to how deeply the character has intertwined with her identity over the years.

A Legacy That Will Endure

Irene Roberts’ departure marks the end of an era, but her legacy will endure in the hearts of fans and the narrative history of Home and Away. Through decades of dramatic highs and lows, she has been a symbol of empathy, resilience, and unwavering support. Her journey, particularly the poignant exploration of Alzheimer’s, stands as a reminder of the show’s capacity to tackle real-world issues while engaging audiences with compelling storytelling.

As the series prepares to air Irene’s final scenes, viewers can expect a deeply moving tribute to one of Summer Bay’s most cherished residents. McGranger’s heartfelt performance promises to honor Irene’s legacy, leaving a lasting impression on the series and its fans.

The bittersweet farewell also serves as a reminder of the powerful role that long-running characters play in shaping audience connection, cultural impact, and storytelling in serial drama. Irene Roberts, through McGranger’s dedicated portrayal, has not only entertained but also educated, inspired, and comforted viewers for nearly three decades—a testament to the enduring magic of Home and Away.

In the coming episodes, audiences can prepare for emotional farewells, touching musical accompaniment, and a narrative that celebrates Irene’s remarkable journey. As McGranger herself reflects, the story is “very, very, very proud of it,” ensuring that while Irene may leave Summer Bay, her influence will resonate for years to come.