The world of Summer Bay will never be the same. After 33 years, Lyn McGranger is bidding farewell to Home and Away, leaving behind the iconic role of Irene Roberts. The actress, who’s been lighting up our screens since 1993, delivered an emotional goodbye to her Home and Away family in March 2025.

“It’s been my great privilege to work with each and every one of you,” McGranger said to her castmates. “I’m touched, humbled, and so honored. Thank you so much.”

Irene Roberts, with her colorful wardrobe, witty catchphrases like “Flipping heck!”, and “Darl”, has been a staple of the show for three decades. From the funny moments to the heartbreaking storylines, Irene has been at the heart of many Home and Away fans’ favorite memories.

A COMPLEX CHARACTER WHO WON OUR HEARTS:

When Irene first arrived in Summer Bay in the 1990s, the character wasn’t initially met with the love we see today. Originally played by Jacqui Phillips, Irene was depicted as an alcoholic and abusive mother, making her far from a fan favorite. But when Lyn McGranger took over the role in 1993, Irene’s character began to evolve. She sobered up and became a beloved figure in the community, even taking on a full-time role after a brief guest stint.

One of the most emotional storylines McGranger brought to life was Irene’s relapse in 2024. After being conned by Bronny Langford, Irene, who had been sober for 9 years, struggled with feelings of shame and despair, leading her to return to alcohol. Viewers watched her hit rock bottom again, checking into rehab once more.

LOVE, LOSS, AND UNLUCKY ROMANCE:

Irene’s love life was as turbulent as her journey to sobriety. Perhaps the closest she ever came to a happy marriage was her engagement to Ken Smith, a recovering alcoholic she had been fostering his son, Will. However, tragedy struck just before their wedding when Ken died in a car accident caused by neglected repairs in his garage. Irene, who had premonitions about his death, was heartbroken.

McGranger once joked, “I quite like the fact she is very unlucky in love. Either they do the dirty on her, or they die.” And it seemed true for Irene. Throughout the years, heartbreak, betrayal, and loss were her constant companions.

A DARKER TURN IN THE LATER YEARS:

One of Irene’s most shocking storylines came in 2015 when she revealed that she had given up a child for adoption after being raped as a teenager. Her long-lost son, Mick Jennings, returned to Summer Bay under false pretenses, only to kidnap Irene and hold her captive for six weeks. In a harrowing moment, Irene struck Mick with a rock, leading to his arrest.

Then in 2009, Irene faced murder charges after her partner, Lou Deano, died mysteriously during a sailing trip. The investigation was intense, and it wasn’t until later that it was revealed that Lou had been killed by people smugglers. Irene spent several weeks in prison, leading to a relapse that complicated her recovery journey.

THE FAREWELL TO IRENE AND THE NEXT CHAPTER:

As McGranger prepares to leave Home and Away, she reflects on her incredible journey. Irene Roberts has been a part of the show for over three decades, enduring many ups and downs. The character’s evolution from an alcoholic, abusive mother to a beloved community member resonates deeply with viewers.

McGranger leaves behind a character that has survived drama, heartbreak, and deep personal struggles. But like many of Home and Away’s legendary characters, Irene’s story will continue to live on in the hearts of fans.