Rachael Carpani, beloved actor known for her roles in McLeod’s Daughters and Home and Away, has sadly passed away at the age of 45. Her family announced her death through a heartfelt statement shared by her sister on Instagram, revealing that she “unexpectedly but peacefully” departed after a long struggle with chronic illness early on December 7.
Carpani rose to fame as Jodi Fountain on the iconic Australian series McLeod’s Daughters, earning two Logie nominations for her captivating performance. Most recently, she portrayed the enigmatic Claudia Salini on Home and Away, endearing herself once again to fans of Australian television.
Bridie Carter, her former co-star from McLeod’s Daughters, paid tribute to Carpani by expressing her sorrow on social media. Describing her as the “baby of the MD family,” Carter remembered Carpani’s vibrant spirit and unique talents, stating, “We are better people for having the privilege of sharing time with you.”
Matt Passmore, who acted alongside Carpani in both McLeod’s Daughters and the American series Against the Wall, also shared his condolences, highlighting the love he has for her family during this difficult time.
Carpani’s career began with minor roles on shows like All Saints and Home and Away before she achieved stardom in 2001 as Jodi Fountain. The character quickly became a favorite among fans, and in 2007, Carpani was nominated for a Gold Logie for her portrayal. Despite her success, Carpani faced the pressures of fame, previously admitting to a desire for privacy and authenticity in her craft.
She eventually moved to Hollywood, where she recalibrated her acting path, appearing in series such as NCIS Los Angeles and The Glades, and landing significant roles, including one in the 2020 film Finding the Way Back alongside Ben Affleck. After returning to Australia in 2024, she expressed joy about rejoining the local industry through her role in Home and Away, stating, “It was one of the most enjoyable times I’ve ever had on set.”
Carpani was also an advocate for women’s health, sharing her struggles with endometriosis and chronic pain that began in her teenage years. Her candidness about her diagnosis and its impact on her life shed light on the pressing need for better awareness and treatment options for such conditions. She was actively vocal on various social issues, using her platform to discuss topics such as domestic violence, Indigenous rights, and women’s health issues.
Her family has announced that Carpani’s funeral will be held privately on December 19 and has requested privacy as they navigate this challenging time, sharing the sentiment of deep loss felt by many across the entertainment community. Despite the sadness of her passing, Carpani’s remarkable life and contributions as an actress and an advocate will be remembered fondly by her family, friends, and fans.