Australian actress Rachael Carpani has died at the age of 45 following a chronic illness, her family announced Monday, Dec. 15. The performer, best known for her role as Jodi Fountain in the hit Australian series “McLeod’s Daughters,” passed away in the early hours of Sunday, Dec. 7.
Her sister Georgia shared a statement from their parents Tony and Gael Carpani via Instagram, confirming the news. “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,” the statement read.
The family indicated that a private funeral will be held on Friday, Dec. 19, with close family and friends in attendance. They requested privacy during this difficult time and stated they would make no further statements.
Born Aug. 24, 1980, in Sydney, Australia, Carpani achieved widespread recognition for her portrayal of Jodi Fountain in “McLeod’s Daughters,” appearing in nearly 180 episodes from 2001 to 2009. The outback drama became a cultural phenomenon in Australia and earned Carpani two Logie award nominations during her tenure on the series. Her performance resonated with audiences worldwide, establishing her as a prominent figure in Australian television.
Following her success in Australia, Carpani transitioned to American television, taking on the lead role in Lifetime’s “Against the Wall.” She also made appearances in several U.S. productions, including “NCIS: Los Angeles,” “The Glades,” and “The Rachels.” Her film credits include the 2009 psychological horror “Triangle” alongside Liam Hemsworth, and the 2020 sports drama “The Way Back” starring Ben Affleck.
Most recently, Carpani joined the cast of “Home and Away” in 2024, marking her return to Australian television. The long-running soap opera provided her with another opportunity to connect with Australian audiences after years of working primarily in the United States.
Bridie Carter, Carpani’s co-star from “McLeod’s Daughters,” paid tribute to her former colleague on social media. “We love you Carpani. We miss you Rach,” Carter wrote. “May your blessed spirit, so vivid, so full of life, generosity, unique talent, energy, fervour, intelligence, resilience, courage and great humour, and a gentle humility, may you rest in peace.”
Carpani had been open about her health struggles, revealing in 2021 that she had been diagnosed with endometriosis and adenomyosis. These chronic conditions affect many women and can cause significant pain and discomfort. Her willingness to discuss these issues publicly helped raise awareness about conditions that often go undiagnosed or dismissed.
The actress maintained an active presence on social media, where fans remembered her warmth and authenticity. In August, Georgia had posted a birthday tribute to her sister, writing about how she brought light and joy to those around her. The post featured photos of Carpani both in professional settings and casual moments, capturing the multifaceted nature of her personality.
Following the announcement of her death, fans flooded social media with messages of condolence and memories of watching her performances. Many cited “McLeod’s Daughters” as a formative part of their childhoods, with Carpani’s character Jodi Fountain serving as a beloved figure throughout the series’ run. The show’s portrayal of women running a cattle station in the Australian outback broke ground in Australian television, with Carpani playing a central role in its success.
Beyond her acting career, Carpani had diverse interests in television production and entertainment. Her work spanned multiple genres and formats, from soap operas to crime dramas to made-for-television movies including “If There Be Thorns.” This versatility demonstrated her range as a performer and her ability to adapt to different storytelling styles.
The entertainment industry has lost a talented performer whose work touched audiences across two continents. Carpani’s contributions to both Australian and American television showcased her abilities as an actress capable of connecting with viewers through authentic, compelling performances. Her legacy includes not only her extensive body of work but also her openness about health challenges that affect countless individuals.
As family and friends prepare to gather for her funeral later this week, the outpouring of support from fans and colleagues reflects the impact Carpani made throughout her career. Her performances will continue to be remembered by audiences who grew up watching her on screen, ensuring that her work remains part of television history in both Australia and beyond.
