McLeod’s Daughters and Home and Away star Rachael Carpani has died “unexpectedly, but peacefully”, her family has revealed.

Australian actress Rachael Carpani has died aged 45 after a “long battle with chronic illness”.

The beloved star, who rose to fame as Jodi Fountain in McLeod’s Daughters, passed away on Sunday, December 7.

Her sister Georgia announced the news in a statement from the family shared on Instagram.

“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, 7th December,” the statement read.

Australian actress Rachael Carpani died after a
Australian actress Rachael Carpani died after a “long battle with chronic illness” aged 45, on December 7. Picture: Nine
“The funeral will be a private event, to be held on Friday, 19th December, with close family and friends. The family requests privacy at this very difficult time and will be making no further statements.”

Carpani was best known for her performance in McLeod’s Daughters, which she starred in from 2001 until 2009.

The role earned her two TV WEEK Logie Award nominations in 2007, one for Most Popular Actress and one for a Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality on Television.

Carpani’s McLeod’s Daughters co-star Bridie Carter shared a heartfelt tribute to the “baby of our MD family”.

She wrote: “We are better people for having the privilege of sharing time with you.

“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.

“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.”

Carpani appeared in a 12-episode stint on Home Away in 2024 as “strong-willed businesswoman Claudia Salini”.

Carpani was described as
Carpani was described as “generous” and being “full of life” by her McLeod’s Daughters co-star. Picture: Getty

She also enjoyed guest roles on US TV shows such as NCIS: Los Angeles and Cane.

Fans paid tribute to the beloved Australian actress, with one writing on X: “This is incredibly sad. I loved her in McLeod’s Daughters. May she rest in peace”.

“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,” another added.