Home and Away reveals first clues to Irene's exit after 33 years

Home and Away has dropped the first clues for Irene Roberts’ exit.

It was announced a few months ago that actor Lynne McGranger will be saying goodbye to the Australian soap after 33 years, and fans are keen to know how the legendary character’s final scenes will play out.

In scenes that aired recently, Irene appeared confused when talking to John Palmer about an old watch that she hadn’t worn for ages.

Later on, she seemed surprised when hearing some old news about Roo Stewart as if she was hearing it for the first time.

The soap appears to be hinting that Irene’s exit will involve memory problems, with fans predicting she’ll be diagnosed with dementia or a brain tumour.

dana matheson and irene roberts in home and away

Channel 5

One fan added to the theory by suggesting it could be alcohol related due to Irene’s addiction. They wrote on Facebook: “Could be alcohol related dementia, Korsakoff Syndrome. An adult and relatable storyline.”

While we’ll have to wait and see what’s in store for Irene’s departure, one thing we do know is that the exit storyline was actually pitched by McGranger herself.

“I went and spoke to the producers and the head writer and ran it past them, and they loved (my idea),” she said.

“(The story) is very pertinent, and very important, and I am really very proud of it. From what I have read, and from what we have filmed so far, it is so well written – I just hope I can do it justice.

“But I know my fellow actors will support me, and I’m happy with the way it is all unfolding.”

lynne mcgranger, irene roberts, home and away

Jeremy Greive//Channel 5

Shortly after her exit was announced, McGranger reflected on her favourite storyline from her decades of playing Irene.

“When Irene was diagnosed with breast cancer, that was very important to me because my best friend Maureen who lives in York, her daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer at the same time,” she said, praising the writers for their respectful handling of the issue.

Home and Away airs weekdays at 1.45pm on Channel 5, with repeat screenings at 6pm on 5STAR and first-look screenings at 6.30pm on 5STAR. Selected classic episodes are available via Prime Video in the UK.

In Australia, the show airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7pm on Channel 7 and streams on 7Plus.

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Home and Away reveals first clues to Irene’s exit after 33 years

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