After more than 30 years on Australian television, Home and Away’s Lynne McGranger will conclude her role as Irene later this year.
McGranger’s enduring portrayal has established Irene as a familiar presence in Summer Bay, making her departure a notable moment for the series.
McGranger’s, who is the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama series, said: “After almost 33 years in my dream role and working everyday 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.
Home and Away’s Lynne McGranger.
“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.”
In the series premiere, Irene – portrayed as a recovered alcoholic returning to Summer Bay in hopes of reconnecting with her daughter Fin (Tina Thomsen) – quickly became an integral part of the community. Over the years, the character has driven numerous major storylines, including narratives around alcoholism, a breast cancer diagnosis, the emergence of a long‐lost son, and dramatic events such as a ferry boat sinking, a bomb explosion, a plane crash, and even a stint in prison for a murder she did not commit.
Irene’s distinctive colloquialisms and catchphrases (“girly”, “darl”, “flippin’ heck!”) have become embedded in Australian pop culture, with TV WEEK readers ranking her the second Greatest Australian TV Character Of All Time in a 2023 poll.
Outside of her work on the show, McGranger’s profile has been further elevated by her runner‐up finish on Seven’s Dancing With The Stars in 2014 and the release of her autobiography, Acting Up: Me, Myself and Irene, in 2021.
Home and Away’s executive producer, Julie McGauran said: “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. Lynne will always be a much-loved member of the Home and Away family, her friendship to all is truly cherished and we wish her all the best for what’s next in her bright, bright future.”
Fans are urged to tune in as Home and Away heads towards Irene’s emotional exit storyline.
Pictured: Home and Away’s Lynne McGranger