Soap legend’s heartbreaking exit storyline revealed as she leaves show after 33 years

Home and Away was first shown in 1988 and has been a hit with viewers ever since.

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Lynne McGranger is preparing to say goodbye to Home and Away for the last timeCredit: Getty

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After her debut in 1993, she’s the longest-serving female cast member on the showCredit: Alamy

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The character will embark on a tragic storylineCredit: Handout
In the UK, fans of the show can watch episodes on Channel 5 after Vanessa Feltz takes to the airwaves for her eponymous lunchtime show.

Back in February, it was announced that Lynne McGranger, 72, who plays Irene Roberts in the hit Aussie soap, will be leaving the show.

She made her initial debut on the Australian drama back in January 1993 and is longest-serving female actor on the show.

Now the actress is preparing to say goodbye to the show as she is set to embark on her tragic farewell storyline.

Viewers who have tuned into the soap in recent weeks would have seen the character experience significant lapses in her memory.

This includes one concerning incident where she nearly left baby Archie at home when she forgot her babysitting duties.

Taking support from her friend John Palmer (Shane Withington), she seeks help from Dr Bree Cameron (Juliet Godwin).

When she goes for the medical consultation, she is forced to face the gut-wrenching reason behind her behaviour.

The Bay will have to rally round the beloved resident as she faces her biggest challenge.

This will reportedly build towards an episode which some say will ‘go down in Australian television history.’

Home and Away star, 45, has barely aged a day in 36 years since playing rebellious teenager on soap and drink drive arrest

At the time of her initial announcement, the 72-year-old explained: “After almost 33 years in my dream role and working everyday 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.

“I am forever grateful to the best production crew in the world and to our genius writers – whose doors are always open – for everything they have done for Irene over the past 33-odd years.

“And I am so proud of the storyline which will see Irene out of the Bay.

“Above all, a massive, heartfelt thank you to the fans for your continued love and support.”

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In recent weeks, viewers have seen Irene Roberts experience concerning lapses in her memoryCredit: Seven

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Lynne McGranger has been a part of the show for 33 yearsCredit: Getty Images – Getty
You can watch Home and Away on 5.