It’s the end of an era for Home and Away favourite Lynne McGranger, who filmed her final scene on set today after playing her beloved character Irene Roberts for nearly 33 years.
Cast and crew gathered to watch the 72 year-old film her final moments, with the scene taking place in the iconic ‘Pier Diner’ set, at Seven’s Eveleigh Studios in Sydney.
McGranger thanked the cast and crew for all their support, saying she had had the “ride of her life” playing her beloved character.
“I love each and every one of you so much,” she said, before paying tribute to co-stars Ray Meagher, Emily Symmons, Shane Withington, Ada Nicodemou and James Stewart as well as “all the young’uns” who had shared the screen with her over the years.
“There’s so many unsung heroes…You’re all amazing, and it’s been my great privilege to work with each and every one of you.
“I’m touched, I’m humbled and I’m so honored.”
To mark the occasion, McGranger was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Home and Away Producer Lucy Addario, as well as a ‘Hamburger Phone’ — a nod to the famous prop that’s been used at The Diner over the years.
McGranger, who announced she was leaving the iconic Aussie soap back in February, was applauded by the large group of cast and crew as she exited the studio doors for the final time.
Back in February, McGranger told The West Australian she expected her final day on set to be an emotional one.
“I think I will miss the camaraderie,” she said.
“I will miss my great friends who are on the show.
“I will miss Ada, and Shane, and Emily, and the girls in makeup, and the girls in wardrobe, and the crew; I will miss Kylie, who is the producer’s PA — everybody!”
McGranger, who has been nominated for a Logie, has been a viewer favourite since debuting on the soap in January 1993.
Her final scenes — which are being kept top secret — will air in August this year.
Viewers can tune in to Sunrise tomorrow morning on Seven for a special tribute celebrating McGranger’s remarkable time on Home and Away.