Lynne McGranger, a beloved star of the long-running Australian soap opera Home and Away, has announced her decision to leave the show after an impressive 33 years. McGranger, who has portrayed the character Irene Roberts, is set to air her final scenes in mid-August 2023. In a candid interview with Australian Women’s Weekly, she shared her motivations for this significant career shift.
Reflecting on her time with the series, McGranger expressed a desire to embrace new opportunities, particularly in theatre. She stated, “I want to enjoy life, I want to remain fit for as long as I possibly can.” This decision comes after a period of contemplation in late 2022, as she recognized the importance of prioritizing personal relationships and well-being over her professional commitments.
“I look forward to being a nanna down the track,” McGranger added. “And if that’s not to be, still maintaining a great relationship with my daughter and my son-in-law.” Her heartfelt words underscore her commitment to family and a more balanced lifestyle, where time spent with loved ones takes precedence over work obligations.
When McGranger first joined the cast of Home and Away, her role was intended to last only three months. Little did she know that it would evolve into a career-defining position. She humorously recounted telling her partner, Paul, that he might have to give up work if her role became full-time. Indeed, it did, leading to a remarkable journey that has left an indelible mark on Australian television.
In her discussion, McGranger also highlighted the unique parenting dynamic she shared with Paul and their daughter, Clancy McWaters. While McGranger was the primary breadwinner, Paul took on the nurturing role during Clancy’s formative years. “He would do the reading. Take her to ballet, to netball. He loved it,” she said. This non-traditional approach to parenting has shaped Clancy’s views on gender roles, which she articulated during a recent photoshoot celebrating her mother’s legacy.
“It’s happening more now, but it was rare,” Clancy noted, adding that her upbringing taught her that conventional family structures need not dictate one’s life choices. “Mum was the main breadwinner, and it’s been cool because I’ve been raised with the belief that it doesn’t have to be that way.”
As Lynne McGranger prepares to leave the iconic role of Irene, her departure marks the end of an extraordinary era for both the actress and the show. Her contributions to Home and Away have been significant, and her character has resonated with audiences for decades.
With her sights set on new endeavors and a fulfilling personal life, McGranger’s next chapter promises to be just as engaging as her time on screen. As she moves forward, her legacy in Australian television remains secure, and fans will undoubtedly cherish the memories of her performance for years to come.
