The countdown has begun for one of the most beloved icons of Home and Away, and fans are picking up on every clue. While the show remains tight-lipped, a seemingly ordinary scene this week has sparked major theories, and viewers think they’ve figured out how Irene Roberts might be written out.
An Emotional Exit Is Coming… But How?
Back in February, Home and Away confirmed that Lynne McGranger, who’s played Irene Roberts for an incredible 33 years, will be leaving the show in August 2025. Channel 7 promised an “emotional exit” that fans “won’t want to miss,” but didn’t share anything else about what’s ahead for the character.
Now, following Tuesday’s episode, some sharp-eyed viewers believe the show has already started planting seeds.
One moment in particular caught fans’ attention: a casual conversation between Irene and John Palmer about her old watch turned strangely awkward when Irene appeared confused. When John reminded her that she hadn’t worn it in ages, Irene seemed unsure and taken aback.
That wasn’t all, when someone repeated information about Roo Stewart, Irene reacted like she was hearing it for the first time. The repetition didn’t go unnoticed, and fans quickly took to social media with theories.
Fans Suspect a Dementia Storyline in Home and Away
A viewer posted in a popular Home and Away Facebook group, wondering if Irene’s moments of confusion might be the early signs of dementia. They pointed out the watch conversation and her “brain freeze” during the Roo scene and asked others if they thought the show was heading toward a health-related exit.
The response was instant. One fan said they were thinking the exact same thing and mentioned that it could be dementia, or possibly a brain tumour. Another said they told their family the same theory right after the episode, convinced Irene was forgetting things. One viewer suspected it could be Korsakoff’s syndrome, linked to long-term alcohol use, which ties into Irene’s past struggles.
Lynne Had a Hand in How Irene Says Goodbye
While theories keep flying, Lynne McGranger has already shared that the idea behind Irene’s farewell was her own. During a chat on Fitzy & Wippa with Kate Ritchie in March, she said she approached the writers with a storyline idea when she felt the time was right to leave.
She joked that the writers usually brace themselves when she pitches ideas, referencing a time she wanted Irene to be abducted by aliens. But this time, she said, they loved it. According to Lynne, they actually said, “That’s great!” after hearing her pitch, and she joked that maybe she missed her calling in the writing department.
While we still don’t know exactly how Irene will exit, one thing’s certain: if this theory proves true, we’re in for a beautifully handled, emotional goodbye, and fans will want the tissues ready. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for all the latest Home and Away theories, spoilers, and farewell updates from Summer Bay!
