After nearly three decades, Summer Bay will bid farewell to its most beloved character, Irene Roberts.

Lynne McGranger, 72, who is the longest-serving female actor in an Australian drama series, has announced that she will be leaving Seven’s soap opera, Home and Away, later this year.

“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,” McGranger said in a statement on Sunday.

“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.”

Originally played by Jacqy Phillips, the role of Irene Roberts was taken over by McGranger in 1993 after Phillips’ departure.

Initially a recurring character, Irene became a series regular that same year, with McGranger making the role iconic with her sharp wit, classic eyerolls, and signature “Irene-isms.”

Over the years, Irene has been at the centre of gripping storylines, including battling breast cancer, surviving a ferry sinking, a bomb explosion, and even being wrongfully imprisoned for murder.

Known for her resilience and no-nonsense attitude, Irene’s catchphrases like “girly,” “darl,” and “flippin’ heck!” have solidified her place as one of Australia’s most beloved TV characters.

Talking about her departure in an interview with the Daily Telegraph, McGranger said she believed that she has “done her dues” on the silver screen.

“You either leave voluntarily or leave in a box by the time you’re my age,” she said.

“I’m not going to live forever, particularly if I keep doing 14-hour days. You get a bit tired, you need your sleep, if you have a bad night’s sleep you will pay the price the next day. My body isn’t as resilient as it once was.”

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I moved to Australia after saving up for six months because I love Home and Away

“It means a lot that my friendship and Irene has been such an important part in the lives of people in and around Summer Bay both on screen and behind the scenes,” she said.

As McGranger prepares for her final days on Home and Away, she already has a packed schedule ahead, including rehearsals for The Grandparents Club, appearances until October, and a possible holiday in Japan.