Home and Away legend Lynne McGranger reveals why she's leaving after 33 years

 "Until the day I die I’ll probably still be called Irene!"

Home and Away icon Lynne McGranger has explained why she is stepping away from the Australian soap after 33 years.

McGranger joined the show in 1993 as Irene Roberts, taking over the role from original actor Jacqy Phillips.

After more than three decades in Summer Bay, the actor is moving on from Home and Away and has opened up on her reasons why.

"I want to enjoy life. I want to remain fit for as long as I possibly can," she told Australian Women’s Weekly.

"To be more regular with my friendships and staying in touch with people that I may have lost touch with over the years.

"I look forward to being a nana down the track. And if that’s not to be, still maintaining a great relationship with my daughter and my son-in-law. Being able to spend more time with the people who are important in my life instead of having to work as a priority.

"And yes, I’d like to be known as Lynne, which might happen in some quarters, but I think until the day I die I’ll probably still be called Irene!"

Details of Irene's heart-wrenching exit storyline have been revealed after the beloved character experienced some worrying health issues.

After suffering from confusion and memory loss, Irene visited Dr Bree Cameron to undergo tests, fearful of what the results might hold for her in the future.

"She realises that things aren’t right," McGranger said. "This is the turning point for her. She tries to get out of babysitting from then on because she's terrified.

"Bree doesn’t want to say it's one thing or another – she's in no position to do so yet – but she does strongly recommend the tests."