The Australian entertainment community is in mourning following the tragic news that Rachael Carpani, the beloved star of McLeod’s Daughters and Home and Away, has died at the age of 45. Her family announced on Monday, December 15, 2025, that the actress passed away "unexpectedly but peacefully" in the early hours of Sunday, December 7, following a long and courageous battle with a chronic illness. Her death has sparked a wave of tributes from co-stars and fans worldwide who grew up watching her on screen.

The immediate details of her passing were shared via a heartbreaking Instagram post by her sister, Georgia, on behalf of their parents, Tony and Gael Carpani. While the family did not disclose the specific nature of her chronic illness, they noted that she had fought it for a long time. Rachael had previously been open with fans about her health struggles, including a 2021 hospitalization for acute abdominal pain that required emergency surgery. In those posts, she admitted to "white-knuckling" through pain for decades before finally seeking the transformative help she needed.

A key highlight of Rachael Carpani’s career was her eight-season run as Jodi Fountain-McLeod on the iconic Australian drama McLeod’s Daughters. Starring in nearly 180 episodes between 2001 and 2009, her performance earned her two Logie Award nominations in 2007, including the prestigious Gold Logie for Most Popular Personality on Australian Television. Her co-star Bridie Carter, who played her on-screen sister Tess, led the tributes on social media, describing Rachael as the "baby" of the McLeod's family and a "blessed spirit" who was "so full of life."

Understanding her desire for artistic growth, Carpani famously moved to the United States following her success in Australia to avoid being pigeonholed as "Jodi from McLeod’s Daughters." This move led to a successful international career with roles in major U.S. productions such as NCIS: Los Angeles, The Glades, and the Ben Affleck-led film The Way Back. Most recently, she made a triumphant return to Australian television in 2024 with a recurring role as Claudia Salini on Home and Away, a project she described as "one of the most enjoyable times" she ever had on a set.

The enduring legacy of Rachael Carpani extends beyond her acting credits to her passionate advocacy for social issues. She frequently used her platform to speak out about women's health specifically the lack of resources for endometriosis and adenomyosis as well as domestic violence, climate change, and human rights. Her family has requested privacy during this difficult time and announced that a private funeral will be held on December 19, 2025, to honor the life of a woman who brought immense joy and talent to audiences across the globe.