BYE BYE BAY ‘It’s bittersweet’, says TV favourite as she bids farewell to Home and Away after more than 30 years on air

A TV favourite is saying goodbye to the Bay after more than 30 years.

Lynne McGranger, who plays Irene Roberts in the hit Aussie soap, has announced she will be leaving the show.

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She revealed she will be hanging up her apron in the Diner after 32 years playing the beloved character.

The 72-year-old 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.

“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.”

Lynne is the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama series.

She made her on-screen debut in January 1993 and has had a number of key storylines over the years.

She joined the cast as a mother trying to reconnect with her daughter Fin, after her alcoholism drove her away.

Over the years, she has remained sober, but it also shown her when she relapsed, as recently as last year.

Irene has fostered numerous children in her time in the soap, with an open door policy to kids in the Bay.

Home and Away star, 45, has barely aged a day in 36 years since playing rebellious teenager on soap and drink drive arrest

She also battled a breast cancer diagnosis, a bomb explosion and a plane crash, found a long lost son and even found herself in prison for a murder she did not commit.

‘PURE JOY’

Lynne will wrap up filming next month but Irish viewers will have to wait until later in the year to see her final scenes.

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.”

Home and Away airs on RTE One on weekdays at 1.30pm and 6.30pm.

A TV favourite is saying goodbye to the Bay after more than 30 years. Lynne McGranger, who plays Irene Roberts in the hit Aussie soap, has announced she will be leaving the show. 3 Lynne McGranger is the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama seriesCredit: Getty Images – Getty 3 Lynne starred as Irene Roberts…