Actress Rachael Carpani has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 45, her devastated family has confirmed.
The Australian actress gained recognition for her roles in TV series such as NCIS: Los Angeles, Home and Away, and notably McLeod’s Daughters where she portrayed Jodi Fountain McLeod in 179 episodes.
She also appeared in films like Triangle alongside Liam Hemsworth and The Way Back with Colin Farrell.
Her sister Georgia shared a statement on Instagram on Saturday (December 14), revealing that Carpani died ‘unexpectedly but peacefully’ following a ‘long battle with chronic illness.’
Her parents, Tony and Gael, mentioned that the actress passed away in the early hours of December 7.
A private funeral for close friends and family is scheduled for December 19.
The family requested privacy during this challenging time and stated that no further comments would be made.
Details regarding the chronic illness Carpani faced have not been disclosed.
Bridie Carter, her co-star from McLeod’s Daughters, paid homage to Carpani, saying: “We are better people for having the privilege of sharing time with you.”
She continued, “We know Rach will not only be missed immeasurably by her family, by us, but she is loved and will be missed by you all, around the world.”
Carter added, “May your blessed spirit, so vivid, so full of life, laughter, joy, generosity, unique talent, energy, fervour, intelligence, resilience, courage and great humour, and a gentle humility, may you rest in peace.”
Born in Sydney, Carpani’s breakout role came in the Australian TV drama McLeod’s Daughters where she played farmhand Jodi from 2001 to 2009.
Her performance earned her two Logie Award nominations.
At the beginning of her acting career, she appeared in programs like All Saints and Home and Away, and she also had roles in films such as Hating Alison Ashley.
After departing McLeod’s Daughters to explore opportunities in the United States, she guest-starred in series like NCIS: Los Angeles and had a recurring role on The Glades.
She also headlined the Lifetime series Against the Wall.
In August 2024, Carpani returned to Home and Away in a recurring role as Claudia Salini.
She described this return as a ‘full-circle moment’ in her career, sharing with Now To Love that it felt like coming back to a cornerstone of Australian television after years spent working abroad.
Despite the demanding workload, which she admitted ‘knocked me flat on my butt,’ she expressed her love for the show and commended the cast and crew for their warm and supportive environment.