Lynne McGranger, the beloved actress known for her role as Irene Roberts on the long-running Australian soap opera Home and Away, has concluded her remarkable journey with the show after 33 years. The recent farewell episode, which aired to over 1.6 million viewers in Australia, marks a significant moment in television history, capturing the attention of fans and critics alike. This milestone episode became the most-watched broadcast since October 2021, further solidifying the show’s impact on Australian pop culture.
The emotional farewell follows McGranger’s announcement of her plans to travel the world after being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. Her character, Irene, has been central to numerous major storylines, including struggles with addiction, health crises, and family dynamics. With a legacy that includes memorable catchphrases and a deep connection with audiences, Irene has left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers.
A Legacy of Memorable Moments
Throughout her time on Home and Away, Irene Roberts has faced a myriad of challenges, from battling alcoholism to dealing with unexpected family revelations. Notably, she survived a ferry boat sinking and a bomb explosion, and even faced imprisonment for a crime she did not commit. These compelling narratives have contributed to her status as one of the most iconic characters in Australian television, earning her accolades such as being ranked the second greatest Australian TV character of all time by TV WEEK in a 2023 poll.
McGranger’s portrayal of Irene has resonated deeply with viewers. The actress’s ability to balance humor and vulnerability made her character relatable and enduring. Reflecting on her journey, McGranger expressed her surprise at being offered the role initially, recalling a challenging audition where she battled food poisoning but still managed to secure the character that would define her career.
“I got really bad food poisoning before the audition… somehow got through the audition, and I got the role,” McGranger shared. “I remember I was so delighted and surprised, and then I got the character breakdown and it said ‘Irene Roberts, thin-waisted alcoholic.'”
Recognition and Future Endeavors
Earlier this year, McGranger’s contributions to the industry were celebrated at the 65th TV WEEK Logie Awards, where she won the Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality and the Silver Logie for Best Lead Actress in a Drama Series. These honors coincide with her departure from Home and Away, creating a poignant farewell that she describes as the “icing on the cake.”
As she prepares to embark on a new chapter, McGranger is set to star in the musical comedy The Grandparents Club 2, which follows a group of grandparents on a cruise. With her enthusiasm for theatre and live performance, McGranger is eager to embrace this new role, stating, “Touring with these three wonderful actors… we’re all just living our best lives in our 60s and beyond. I’m loving every minute of it.”
Looking back on her career, she acknowledges the unique challenges and joys that arise from being a long-standing character on a popular show. While some fans wished for former characters to return for her farewell, McGranger was content with her exit, humorously wishing for a dramatic demise, such as being hit by a bus outside the diner, to leave a lasting legacy.
As McGranger transitions into this new phase of her career, she remains grateful for the love and support from fans. “Gawd, the amount of times I get called Irene… I can’t even tell you,” she remarked. Despite her departure from the iconic role, her legacy as Irene Roberts will continue to be celebrated across Australia and beyond.
