Lynne McGranger Reveals What’s Next After Home and Away Exit: A New Chapter for a Soap Icon

In a bittersweet twist for Home and Away fans across the globe, Lynne McGranger — the indomitable actress behind the beloved Irene Roberts — has officially bid farewell to the long-running Australian soap opera. Her departure marks the end of an extraordinary 30-year journey, cementing her legacy as one of the longest-serving cast members in the show’s illustrious history.

McGranger’s portrayal of Irene, the no-nonsense yet deeply compassionate diner owner and foster mum, has been a pillar of Summer Bay since 1993. Over the decades, audiences watched Irene face addiction, heartbreak, trauma, and triumph — always emerging stronger, wiser, and more deeply woven into the community’s emotional fabric. It’s no surprise, then, that her final scenes carried significant emotional weight, both on-screen and off.

An Emotional Farewell at the Pier Diner

McGranger’s last day of filming took place at the iconic Pier Diner, the heart of so many pivotal Home and Away moments. Surrounded by familiar faces and lifelong colleagues, the actress took a moment to reflect on the significance of her time with the show.

“This show is made up of so many parts,” she said in an emotional on-set speech. “You’re all amazing, and it’s been my great privilege to work with each and every one of you. I’m touched, I’m humbled, and I’m so honored. Thank you so much.”

As the cameras rolled for her final take, the sense of finality rippled through the cast and crew — a poignant ending not just to Irene’s story, but to a vibrant era in Home and Away history.

Coming Full Circle: A Return to Her Theatrical Roots

While McGranger’s time in Summer Bay has come to a close, her journey as an artist is far from over. At 71, the actress is embracing a new chapter — one that takes her back to where it all began: the theater.

Speaking candidly with Woman’s Day, McGranger opened up about her evolving passions and the excitement she feels about her future. “It has been in the back of my mind for so long, so to get back to where I started in theater has been amazing,” she revealed. “It really feels like coming full circle.”

Her recent role in the stage production Cruising with the Grandparents Club reignited her love for live performance and proved to be a major turning point. “Doing Grandparents Club last year really solidified my decision to leave Home and Away as well. I will miss it so much though,” she admitted with a wistful smile.

The Next Act: Embracing New Creative Frontiers

For McGranger, the transition from television back to stage isn’t just a return — it’s a renaissance. After three decades locked into the demanding schedule of a soap opera, she now finds herself with the freedom to explore projects that once seemed out of reach.

“I’m very excited to do more theater and just be able to do more in general,” she said with a laugh. And while she’s clearly relishing the idea of serious stage work, she’s not ruling out other opportunities — especially ones that show a different side of her.

“Isn’t The Voice looking for a new mentor?” she quipped, with a glint of mischief in her eye. “And I can kind of see myself on the news desk!” Though the comments were made in jest, there’s no denying that McGranger is genuinely energized by the possibilities ahead.

“All jokes aside, this does open up a lot more opportunities for me,” she continued. “I’d love to maybe do some comedy and just be adventurous.”

A Legacy that Transcends the Screen

Throughout her time on Home and Away, McGranger became more than just a television fixture — she became a symbol of resilience and warmth. Irene’s character resonated deeply with fans, particularly for her fearless advocacy for vulnerable youth and her willingness to stand up to injustice. Off-screen, McGranger’s charisma, candor, and unshakable work ethic have made her a role model in the industry.

Her departure comes at a time when Home and Away itself is undergoing shifts, with new storylines, emerging characters, and evolving dynamics keeping the series fresh for a new generation. But for many, the loss of Irene will leave a noticeable gap in the heart of Summer Bay.

Fans React: A Nation Says Goodbye to Irene

As news of McGranger’s exit spread, fans flooded social media with messages of gratitude and sorrow. Hashtags like #FarewellIrene and #ThankYouLynne trended across platforms, with viewers sharing favorite moments and memorable quotes from Irene’s tenure.

“She was like the heart and soul of Summer Bay,” one user tweeted. “No one could throw sass and wisdom in the same sentence like Irene could.”

Others praised McGranger for her authenticity and for portraying tough subjects — from domestic abuse to addiction — with sensitivity and strength. “She gave so much heart to those stories. She made them real. That’s a legacy right there,” another fan wrote.

The Final Word

As the curtains close on Irene Roberts’ time in Summer Bay, Lynne McGranger walks away with her head high and her heart full. Her decision to step away from Home and Away was not made lightly, but rather as a bold leap toward reinvention.

Her return to the stage — and potentially more — marks the beginning of an exciting new act in an already remarkable career. Whether she’s commanding a theater audience, cracking jokes on a comedy set, or surprising us on a new TV format, one thing is certain: Lynne McGranger is far from finished. She’s just getting started.

For now, fans can cherish the decades of unforgettable moments she brought to Home and Away — and look ahead with anticipation to where her talents will shine next.

Stay tuned for more dramatic turns, heartfelt moments, and exciting updates — both on screen and beyond.