Rachael Carpani, the Australian actress best known for her roles in McLeod’s Daughters and Home and Away, has passed away at the age of 45. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by her sister, Georgia, via an Instagram post.

Rachael Carpani’s sister announces death via Instagram

In a statement, Georgia revealed that Carpani passed away “peacefully” after battling a chronic illness, though no further details about her condition were shared.

She wrote, “It is with great sadness that Tony and Gael Carpani announce that their beautiful daughter, beloved Australian actress Rachael Carpani, unexpectedly but peacefully passed away after a long battle with chronic illness in the early hours of Sunday, 7 December.”

Sharing a photo of the NCIS: Los Angeles actress, the Instagram post also noted that her funeral will be held on Friday, December 19, with the family requesting privacy during this difficult time.

Fans pour in tributes online

One fan wrote, “So sad to hear about the passing of Rachael Carpani. Growing up, watching McLeod’s Daughters helped cement my love for Australia. 45 is far too young. May she rest in peace.” “Just heard this news. Like many Aussies, I loved McLeod’s Daughters growing up. I still rewatch it every year. Very sad to hear Rachel Carpani has passed away. She’s only 9 years older than me. I hope she is pain-free & at peace. Sending condolences to her family & friends,” another user wrote.

A third person added, “A beloved former Home and Away star has tragically died at the age of 45. Rachael Carpani rose to fame playing Jodi Fountain in the hugely popular early 2000s drama McLeod’s Daughters and more recently appeared in the hit Australian soap as antagonist Claudia Salini.”

More about Rachael Carpani’s work

Rachael Carpani was best known for her breakthrough role as Jodi Fountain on the beloved Australian drama McLeod’s Daughters, appearing in the series from 2001 to 2009 and earning two Logie Award nominations for her performance.

Best known as Jodi Fountain on McLeod’s Daughters, Rachael Carpani built a wide-ranging career across Australian and US television | Credit: X/@PopBase

Beyond that iconic role, she built a diverse career with credits in both Australian and American television, including guest appearances on shows like All Saints, NCIS: Los Angeles, and The Glades and a lead role in Against the Wall. Later in her career, she returned to Australian screens with a recurring role as Claudia Salini on Home and Away, showcasing her range from classic Aussie drama to international projects.