Home and Away fans are sharing their favourite things about beloved character Irene Roberts (played by Lynne McGranger) after we bid a sad goodbye to her on our screens in last night’s episode.
Irene was first introduced to Summer Bay for a brief stint in 1991, before Lynne was recast in the role and stepped into Irene’s shoes in 1993. From fostering kids to running the diner and narrowly escaping numerous catastrophic events, Irene was a core part of the Bay, and fans are devastated to see her go after 32 years on our screens.
What happened to Irene Roberts?
In the lead up to Irene’s departure from our screens, she was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease which prompts her to sell her house and go see the world while she still can.
Lynne McGranger came up with the idea and took it to the Home and Away scriptwriters, but joked that she would’ve been happy if Irene was “hit by a bus outside the Diner.”
In her final episode, Irene celebrates her departure with all her friends in Summer Bay by throwing a party with Theo (Matt Evans) and Justin (James Stewart) performing some songs. She leaves the party arm in arm with John Palmer (Shane Withington) before surprising John with a flight ticket to come meet her in Paris.
Fans mourn the loss of Home and Away’s Irene
Fans have taken to social media to share their favourite things about Irene after her sad departure.
“Irene will always be remembered as a sweet, caring loving mother who took in so many kids/adults like her own family,” one person commented. “I just remember Irene as being such a beautiful loving soul. She took so many foster kids in and just did so much for them. She had so much love to give. She was a beautiful character,” another fan said.
“Remember Irene started out as an alcoholic addicted mother whose life was a complete mess, [and] she turned her life around. In doing so, [she] not only saved her own life but the lives of so many others that she took into her heart and home. That’s the real meaning behind this sensational Australian character (everyone deserves a second chance),” one person reminisced.
Of course, many tears were shed for Irene, but some Home and Away fans are hoping it’s not goodbye
“In tears saying goodbye to Irene on our screens! You have been a permanent figure each night on the TV growing up, Lynne! We will miss you,” one emotional person said. “Why couldn’t I stop crying?! I can’t even remember the last time I cried watching TV!” another commented.
Other fans are still hoping it’s not the very last time we see Irene. “I wonder if she would ever return for a guest appearance in the future, exploring Irene’s story further down the line?” one person questioned. “That would be an interesting direction for the show to take.”
Home and Away airs 7pm Monday to Thursday on Seven and 7plus.
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