Heartbreaking star Lynne McGranger reveals serious illness in real life that forced her to leave Home And Away this year
Heartbreaking: Home and Away Legend Lynne McGranger’s Shock Illness Forces Her to Step Away from the Bay
For over three decades, Lynne McGranger has been the beating heart of Home and Away, captivating millions as the beloved Irene Roberts. Her warmth, sharp wit, and resilience on screen made her one of Summer Bay’s most treasured residents. But this year, in a twist no scriptwriter could have imagined, Lynne has revealed a deeply personal and heartbreaking truth: she is facing a serious illness in real life—one that has forced her to step away from the iconic soap.
In an emotional interview that left fans stunned, the 71-year-old actress spoke candidly about her diagnosis, sharing details that many never saw coming. For someone whose on-screen persona has weathered countless fictional storms—scandals, heartbreaks, and family drama—this real-life battle feels all the more gut-wrenching.
“I never thought I’d be saying goodbye to Summer Bay like this,” Lynne admitted, her voice breaking. “But right now, I have to focus on my health. The doctors have made it very clear—if I don’t take time to rest and undergo treatment, things could get a lot worse.”
Her revelation has sent shockwaves through the Home and Away fan community, many of whom have grown up watching her on their screens. Social media platforms lit up within minutes of the news breaking, with messages of love and support pouring in from across Australia and beyond. “Summer Bay won’t be the same without her,” one devoted fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “I hope she knows how much she means to all of us.”
The specifics of Lynne’s illness remain largely private, though sources close to the actress suggest it has been quietly impacting her behind the scenes for months. Castmates have reportedly rallied around her, with many visiting her at home and offering to help however they can. Home and Away producers have confirmed that her absence will be written into upcoming episodes, but they have not ruled out the possibility of her return in the future—if her health allows.
This unexpected turn of events has also reignited conversations about the pressures of working in long-running television. The demanding filming schedule, combined with the emotional toll of portraying intense storylines year after year, can take a significant toll on even the most seasoned performers. Lynne herself acknowledged this in her interview: “It’s a job I’ve loved with all my heart, but right now, I have to put myself first. That’s not something I’ve always been good at.”
For now, fans are left with a bittersweet hope—that this is not the end of Irene Roberts, nor the end of Lynne McGranger’s presence in the Bay. While her storyline on screen will soon shift, her impact on Home and Away’s legacy is undeniable.
And as for Lynne? She’s determined to fight. “This isn’t goodbye forever,” she promised. “It’s just see you later.”
But with the actress facing the toughest battle of her life, one thing is certain: Summer Bay will never feel quite the same until she comes home.
