The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Australian actress Rachael Carpani, who passed away at the age of 45. Best recognized for her roles on the hit series NCIS: Los Angeles and the long-running Australian drama McLeod's Daughters, Carpani died after a prolonged fight with a chronic illness.
Family Announces Tragic News
Carpani's family shared the heartbreaking news via an Instagram post from her sister, Georgia, on Monday, December 16, 2025. A formal statement from her parents, Tony and Gael Carpani, confirmed that the actress passed away peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, 2025.
The statement described her death as "unexpected but peaceful" following her lengthy health struggle. The family has announced that a private funeral will be held for close family and friends on Friday, December 19, 2025. They have asked for privacy during this difficult time and stated they will not be making any further comments.
A Career Spanning Television and Film
Rachael Carpani built a respected career on both sides of the Pacific. Her most iconic role was as Jodi Fountain on McLeod's Daughters, a part she played for nearly 180 episodes from the show's inception in 2001 until 2009. This role made her a beloved figure in Australian households.
Her work extended internationally with a guest-starring role on the American procedural NCIS: Los Angeles. She also appeared in the Lifetime series Against the Wall and the crime drama The Glades. In film, Carpani featured in the 2020 Ben Affleck sports drama The Way Back.
Health Struggles and Fan Tributes
While the specific nature of her chronic illness was not publicly disclosed, reports indicate Carpani was hospitalized in 2021 with severe abdominal pain and underwent surgery. Her death has sent shockwaves through her fanbase, many of whom grew up watching her on television.
On social media, devastated fans have been leaving heartfelt tributes. One fan wrote on Instagram, expressing condolences and noting, "I loved your sister Rachael on McLeod’s Daughters. She was too young and so beautiful. Life is so unfair sometimes." Another shared, "I grew up watching & wanting to be her."
The passing of Rachael Carpani at 45 is a significant loss to the Australian and international acting community. She is remembered as a talented performer whose work touched audiences around the world.
