NCIS: Los Angeles actress and McLeod’s Daughters star Rachael Carpani has died at the age of 45, her family has confirmed. The Australian actress passed away unexpectedly after a long battle with a chronic illness.

The news was shared on Monday, December 15, in a statement released by her sister, Georgia, announcing that Carpani had died peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, December 7.

Rachael Carpani was born in Sydney, Australia, and built a career that spanned both Australian and U.S. television and film. She appeared in a 2009 episode of NCIS: Los Angeles and held roles in projects including If There Be Thorns, The Glades, and Against the Wall, where she starred in the lead role.

She was best known to audiences for her portrayal of Jodi Fountain on the long-running Australian series McLeod’s Daughters, which aired from 2001 to 2009 and earned a devoted international fan base.

In the family’s statement, her parents said: “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 added that her funeral would be a private service held on Friday, December 19, attended only by close family and friends. The family also requested privacy during what they described as a very difficult time, noting that no further statements would be made.

Details surrounding the specific illness Carpani faced have not been publicly disclosed. However, in 2021, the actress shared with fans that she had been hospitalized after experiencing severe abdominal pain, revealing that she had spent time in intensive care before being transferred to a surgical ward. At the time, she urged others to “listen to what your body is trying to tell you.”

Earlier this year, Carpani’s sister posted a birthday tribute to her, which has since been flooded with messages of condolence from fans around the world. Many shared how deeply her work, particularly on McLeod’s Daughters, had impacted them.

One fan wrote, “I am so incredibly saddened to learn of your darling sister’s passing. I grew up watching her and wanting to be her.” Others offered prayers, sympathy, and heartfelt thanks for the joy Carpani brought through her performances.

Tributes also poured in from former colleagues. McLeod’s Daughters co-star Bridie Carter shared a message on Instagram honoring her late friend, writing of her love and respect for Carpani and expressing deep sympathy for the family.

She described Carpani as “the baby of our McLeod’s Daughters family,” adding that her loss felt deeply wrong and premature. Carter noted that those who had the privilege of knowing Carpani were better for having shared time with her, emphasizing how profoundly she would be missed by family, friends, and fans across the world.

Rachael Carpani is remembered not only for her talent on screen, but also for the warmth and connection she inspired in those who watched her work.

Rest in peace.