After more than three decades of laughter, tears, and classic Aussie one-liners, Home and Away has bid farewell to one of its most iconic characters—none other than the beloved Irene Roberts, played by the incomparable Lynne McGranger.

But as the credits rolled on Irene’s final episode, a wave of disappointment swept through the fanbase, with many viewers left feeling that the send-off simply didn’t do justice to the character’s legacy.



For 33 years, Irene Roberts has been the heart and soul of Summer Bay.

From her early days as the tough, no-nonsense 'Aussie battler' to her more recent struggles with Alzheimer’s disease, Irene’s journey has resonated with generations of Australians.

So, when news broke that Lynne McGranger was hanging up her apron for good, fans braced themselves for an emotional farewell.

The storyline saw Irene, having recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, decide to seize the day and travel the world while she still could. It was a poignant, realistic plot that struck a chord with many—especially those who have watched loved ones face similar battles.



As Irene packed her bags and prepared to leave Summer Bay, viewers tuned in expecting a grand, tear-jerking send-off.

But for many, the episode fell flat. The chief complaint? The glaring absence of both current and former cast members at Irene’s farewell. Social media lit up with comments from disappointed fans:

- 'Would have been nice to have some flashbacks as she was leaving or some old faces to send her off. Felt a little off that the whole cast wasn’t there.'
- 'Not bringing back ANY old faces ruins the legacy of Irene and taints her exit forever. Well done.'
- 'Why is only like two per cent of the cast there at Irene’s farewell? Like where’s Cash, Tane, Mackenzie?'



Some even questioned the logic of sending a character with Alzheimer’s off to travel the world alone, while others lamented the lack of emotional punch: 'Well, that was… underwhelming.'

Of course, not everyone was disappointed. Plenty of fans were moved to tears by Irene’s final scenes, with many sharing their heartbreak online:

- 'Oh, I’m heartbroken at Irene leaving. She’s been in it since I started watching. It’s not gonna be the same!'
- 'Irene’s speech at the end of tonight’s episode was just emotional. I can’t believe she is gone for good now.'



Ada Nicodemou’s character, Leah Patterson, broke down as Irene left, providing one of the night’s most touching moments.

And for those who have followed Irene’s journey from the very beginning, the episode was a bittersweet reminder of just how much the character—and Lynne McGranger herself—has meant to the show.

It’s hard to overstate the impact Irene Roberts has had on Home and Away. Introduced in the early 1990s, Irene quickly became a fan favourite, known for her quick wit, big heart, and unwavering loyalty.

She’s survived more than her fair share of drama—addiction, heartbreak, family turmoil, and now, a devastating health diagnosis.



Lynne McGranger’s portrayal of Irene has earned her a Gold Logie and the admiration of millions. In her own words, leaving the show is 'bittersweet,' but she’s proud of the storyline that saw Irene out of the Bay.

'After almost 33 years in my dream role and working every day 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,' she said.

Read more: Home and Away mainstay actress reveals reason for hospitalisation: 'It was a long time coming'


Were you moved by Irene’s final scenes, or did you feel her send-off missed the mark? What are your favourite Irene moments from over the years? And which other Home and Away characters do you think deserved a better goodbye? Share your thoughts, memories, and tributes in the comments below!