The NCIS: Los Angeles actress and McLeod’s Daughter star Rachael Carpani has died at the age of 45, her family announced. The Australian actress passed away “unexpectedly” after battling a chronic illness.
On Monday, December 15, Rachael Carpani’s sister, Georgia, shared a statement that the actress had died at the age of 45.
Rachael Carpani, born in Sydney, Australia, starred in several US shows and films. She featured in a 2009 episode of NCIS Los Angeles, with other credits including If There Be Thorns, and The Glaes, and had the lead role in Against the Wall.
The actress was best known for starring as Jodi Fountain in the Australian series McLeod’s Daughters, which ran from 2001 to 2009.
“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.
“The funeral will be a private event, to be held on Friday, 19th December with close family and friends,” the statement continued. “The family requests privacy at this very difficult time and will be making no further statements.”
Australian actress Rachael Carpani dead at 45
Carpani also starred in the 2009 movie Triangle alongside Australian star Liam Hemsworth. Exactly what type of chronic illness the actress suffered from is not known. However, in 2021, she was rushed to the hospital after experiencing acute abdominal pain.
“I was admitted to emergency with acute abdominal pain just over a week ago and spent a few days in the ICU,” she wrote at the time. “Was then moved to the surgical ward,” she added before telling fans: “listen to what your body is trying to tell you”.
In August, Rachael Carpani’s sister penned a birthday tribute to her. Now, fans have left comments and tributes under the post.
“I am so incredibly saddened to learn of your darling sisters passing, I am so sorry. I grew up watching & wanting to be her. Sending much love and enveloping hugs to your family,” one person wrote.
A second added, “Praying for your beautiful family,” and a third stated, “I loved your sister in McLeod’s daughters! Sorry for your loss! Xo.”
Suffered from chronic illness
Rachael Carpani’s co-star on McLeod’s Daughters, Bridie Carter, paid tribute to her on Instagram, writing,
“In love and respect, for our beautiful Rach, in prayer and with the deepest sorrow and profound sympathy for the Carpani family. Rest In Peace our beautiful girl….the “baby” of our [ McLeod’s Daughters] family. We love you, we cherish you.”
“This is the wrong order of things. We are better people for having the privilege of sharing time with you, we know Rach will not only be missed immeasurably by her family, by us, but she is loved and will be missed by you all, around the world. We love you Carpani.”
