Australian actress Rachael Carpani, best known for her long-running role on McLeod’s Daughters, has died unexpectedly at the age of 45.
The news was confirmed in a statement from her parents, Tony and Gael Carpani, which was shared by her sister, singer Georgia, 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.
A defining role in Australian television
Carpani rose to prominence as Jodi Fountain on McLeod’s Daughters, appearing on the popular Nine Network drama from 2001 to 2009.
Her performance made her a familiar face in Australian households. It earned her two Logie nominations in 2007, including the Silver Logie for Most Popular Actress and a nomination for the Gold Logie.
Beyond McLeod’s Daughters, Carpani built a diverse screen career, appearing in films such as Hating Alison Ashley and The Very Excellent Mr Dundee, alongside guest roles in television series including All Saints and NCIS: Los Angeles.
Carpani (centre right) with her McLeod’s Daughters co-stars.
A final return to Australian screens
Her most recent on-screen appearance came in 2024, when she joined Home and Away in a recurring role as Claudia Salini, marking a return to Australian television later in her career.
The family said the funeral would be held privately.
“The funeral will be a private event, to be held on Friday, 19th December with close family and friends,” the statement said.
“The family requests privacy at this very difficult time and will be making no further statements.”