Heartbreak as Home and Away star reveals shock health diagnosis: 'I'm so scared'
Irene Roberts, played by the legendary Lynne McGranger, will be leaving the show after three decades.
The lovable character's final storyline will leave loyal fans in tears as Irene battles Alzheimer's disease.
In a promo for her final episodes, Irene breaks down in tears while being supported by John Palmer, played by Shane Withington, after learning about her diagnosis.
'I am so scared,' she says before admitting: 'I might not have any good days left.'
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Justin Morgan, played by James Stewart, then appears on screen and describes it as 'the end of an era'.
John later adds: 'I don't know how to say goodbye. I don't have any words.'
Fans flocked to the comments to express their heartbreak after discovering Irene's health battle.
'I'm not ready to say goodbye to Irene. She's been such a favourite of mine. She brought many smiles on people's faces,' one person said.
'In tears thinking about it. I have grown up with Irene and Home and Away. John will miss her too,' another commented.
'I'm not ready, going to need a big supply of tissues,' a third wrote.
In March, it was revealed that Lynne had filmed her final scenes as Irene on Home and Away, with the series sharing moving scenes from her last day on set.
The 72-year-old was gifted flowers by her co-stars, including Ada Nicodemou, and looked very emotional - albeit elated - as she finished up at Seven's long-running series after over 30 years in the cast.
In March, it was revealed that Lynne had filmed her final scenes as Irene on Home and Away, with the series sharing moving scenes from her last day on set
'I've had the ride of my life. And I love each and every one of you so much: The cast – Ray, Georgie, Emily, Shane, Ada, James, all the youngins' she said in a statement.
'The art department, the writers, everybody – there are so many unsung heroes. This show is made up of so many parts' Lynne continued.
'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 honoured. Thank you so much.'
An additional post to the show's Instagram read: 'Today, Lynne wrapped her final scene with her best friend Ada by her side.
'Stay tuned for Irene's emotional exit storyline coming later this year'.
Lynne has been a Home and Away fan favourite for three decades playing the character of 'Aussie battler' Irene Roberts.
The actress, who is nominated for both a Silver and Gold Logie at this year's 65th Awards, announced her departure from the show earlier this year.
'After almost 33 years in my dream role and working every day 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' the veteran star said at the time.
'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' she continued.
'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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