Summer Bay was flooded with emotion as the cast and crew of Home and Away came together to honour one of the show’s longest-serving and most beloved stars — Lynne McGranger, who is officially stepping away from her role as Irene Roberts after an extraordinary 33 years.
The farewell, held during the final days of McGranger’s filming, turned into an emotional celebration of a woman whose character has become the heart of Home and Away for more than three decades. What began as a tribute quickly became a tear-filled moment of gratitude, laughter, and love, both on and off the screen.
💔 A Farewell to Remember
McGranger’s final scenes were filmed earlier this year, and while her character Irene Roberts will remain on-screen into the second half of 2025, the production team couldn’t let her go without a special goodbye.
The tribute, kept under wraps until now, saw the cast take a break from shooting to gather on the familiar sands of Palm Beach, where so many of Irene’s most iconic moments were filmed. There, under sunny skies and teary eyes, speeches were given, old clips were played, and decades of memories came flooding back.
😭 Cast in Tears as Irene Says Goodbye
From veteran co-stars to newer cast members, the emotion in the air was undeniable. Ray Meagher, who plays Alf Stewart and is the only remaining original cast member, was among the first to speak.
“Lynne’s been the backbone of this show,” Meagher said, visibly moved. “She brought not just talent, but warmth, humour, and heart. This set won’t be the same without her.”
Emily Symons (Marilyn), Ada Nicodemou (Leah), and James Stewart (Justin) all shared personal tributes, with many unable to hold back tears. Several cast members broke down as they spoke about McGranger’s kindness, guidance, and legendary sense of humour.
“She’s more than a co-star — she’s a mentor, a friend, a second mum,” Nicodemou shared.
🎬 A Look Back at a Legendary Career
A specially prepared montage played during the tribute, showcasing Irene’s most powerful scenes over the years — from battles with addiction to heartfelt foster mum moments and fiery confrontations at the Pier Diner. As the screen lit up with memories, McGranger herself couldn’t hold back tears, laughing one moment and wiping her eyes the next.
The footage ended with a simple, powerful message:
“Thank you, Lynne. Thank you for Irene.”
🎁 A Fitting Send-Off
To commemorate her departure, Lynne was presented with a series of heartfelt gifts, including a framed collage of Irene’s most iconic moments, hand-written letters from the entire cast, and a replica of the beloved “hamburger phone” from the Pier Diner — a quirky nod to her on-screen legacy.
As applause rang out, hugs were exchanged, and the cameras stopped rolling, McGranger stood before her colleagues and delivered her own emotional farewell.
“This show has been my home for over half my life,” she said. “You’ve all given me so much — friendship, purpose, laughter, and the chance to tell stories that matter. I’m so grateful, and I’ll carry Summer Bay with me wherever I go.”
🎭 Life After Irene
Although Lynne McGranger is stepping away from Home and Away, she’s not retiring from acting. The 72-year-old has already announced plans to take part in a national theatre tour later this year and hopes to explore other projects in comedy, stage performance, and radio.
She also shared her excitement for a long-overdue holiday and more time with family.
“I’m not done performing — not by a long shot,” she smiled. “But it’s time for new chapters.”
🌅 The End of an Era
As the sun sets on Irene Roberts’ time in Summer Bay, it’s clear that Lynne McGranger leaves behind not just a role, but a legacy. She has shaped the very fabric of the show, and her absence will be felt for years to come.
Fans across the world have already begun to share tributes on social media, with many calling for a Logie lifetime achievement award in her honour.
One thing is certain: Home and Away will go on, but it will never be the same. Thank you, Lynne, for every laugh, every tear, and every moment. You’ll always be Summer Bay’s heart.
