Home and Away fans were left reeling this week after television icon Lynne McGranger officially announced the end of her acting career — a moment few were prepared for, and one that marked the close of an extraordinary era in Australian television.

The shock announcement came during what was meant to be a celebratory appearance, as Lynne reflected on her decades-long journey portraying the beloved Irene Roberts. Instead, the veteran actress delivered an emotional confession that silenced the room and sent shockwaves through the industry.

“I know in my heart that it’s time,” Lynne said quietly, her voice cracking as she confirmed she would be stepping away from acting for good.

For over 30 years, Lynne has been the backbone of Home and Away, anchoring the show through cast changes, explosive storylines, and generations of viewers. Her portrayal of Irene — tough, vulnerable, flawed, and fiercely loyal — turned the character into one of the most recognisable and adored figures in Australian soap history.

But behind the scenes, Lynne admitted the decision had been weighing on her for some time.

“This job has given me everything,” she explained. “But it has also taken a lot. Emotionally, physically — and there comes a point where you need to listen to yourself.”

Sources close to the production revealed that the moment was deeply emotional, with crew members reportedly in tears as Lynne spoke. Many had worked alongside her for years, some for their entire careers. One insider described the atmosphere as “like a family goodbye.”

What made the announcement even more heartbreaking was Lynne’s admission that walking away wasn’t easy — and wasn’t sudden. She revealed she wanted to leave while she still loved the craft, rather than waiting until exhaustion or resentment crept in.

“I don’t want to forget why I fell in love with acting in the first place,” she said. “I want to remember it with gratitude.”

Fans immediately flooded social media with tributes, thanking Lynne for decades of comfort, laughter, and unforgettable storylines. Many credited Irene with helping them through their own real-life struggles, from addiction to loss and loneliness.

Industry figures were equally stunned. Fellow actors described Lynne as a mentor, a leader, and the emotional glue of the Home and Away set. “You don’t replace someone like Lynne McGranger,” one colleague said. “You just feel the absence.”

While Lynne did not rule out future creative pursuits, she was clear that her time in front of the camera has come to an end. “This isn’t a break,” she confirmed. “It’s a goodbye — but a thankful one.”

As Summer Bay prepares to move forward without one of its most iconic residents, fans are bracing themselves for an on-screen farewell that promises to be as powerful as the woman herself.

One thing is certain: when Lynne McGranger finally takes her last bow, she leaves behind a legacy that will never fade — and a hole in Australian television that may never truly be filled.