It’s a sad day for Summer Bay as Irene Roberts star Lynne McGranger has wrapped filming on Home and Away after a whopping 33 years.
Known for her iconic quips and her heart of gold, Irene has been a firm fixture of our TV screens for nearly four decades, with the character rocking up in the Bay all the way back in 1991.
Initially played by Jacqy Phillips, Lynne took over the role in 1993, with Irene swiftly becoming a favourite with Home and Away’s loyal audience – and the rest as they say is history.
Irene’s storylines often centred around those she cared deeply about – not to mention her beloved Pier Diner – and her friendship with Leah Patterson (Ada Nicodemu) is arguably one of the most-known dynamics across all of soap.
Over the past three decades, Irene has battled alcoholism, received a breast cancer diagnosis, discovered she had a long-lost son and served a stint in prison for a murder she didn’t commit.
But after 33 years in Summer Bay, her time is set to come to an end, with Lynne having decided to hang up her on-screen counterpart’s iconic apron for pastures new.
Wednesday (March 26) marked the actress’ final day on set, with her last ever scene filmed in her iconic Pier Diner.
Just as it should be.
The cast and crew of the long-running soap gathered to watch the scene be filmed, before producer Lucy Addario presented Lynne with a bouquet of flowers from the show’s production team.
As a parting gift, Lynne was presented with the iconic hamburger phone – a staple of the diner where she has spent so much of her life.
The legendary actress was subsequently applauded by the cast and crew as she exited Seven’s Eveleigh Studios – where Home and Away is filmed – for the last ever time.
Discussing her gododbye, Lynne said: ‘I’ve had the ride of my life. And I love each and every one of you so much: The cast – Ray, Georgie, Emily, Shane, Ada, James, all the youngins.
‘The art department, the writers, everybody – there’s so many unsung heroes. This show is made up of so many parts.
Deputy Soaps Editor Stephen Patterson says…
Lynne’s departure marks the end of an era – not just for Home and Away but for soap in general.
It’s no exaggeration to say that Irene is one TV’s most recognisable faces. The expression ‘TV royalty’ springs to mind.
Much like Susan Kennedy is to Neighbours, Irene is the beating heart of Summer Bay – and this came to be during a time when soaps ruled over other forms of TV, with millions of viewers tuning in all across the genre.
The Pier Diner legend was no doubt a key part of countless viewers’ childhood. I myself have fond memories of glorious summer afternoons spent with loved ones watching her dish out advice to a colleague or coming to the defence of a friend in need. Powerhouse star Lynne understood the assignment every single time.
Much like Susan will be when Neighbours come to an end in December, Irene will most certainly be missed, but that legacy she created – and the smile she put on so many viewers’ faces over the years – will live on in the hearts of soap fans for decades to come.
‘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.’
Lynne will remain on screen as Irene for many months to come, with an emotional exit storyline in store that is a must for fans of Summer Bay.