Rachael Carpani, McLeod’s Daughters Star, Dies at 45

Rachael Carpani, the Australian actress best known for her role on McLeod’s Daughters, has died aged 45 after a long battle with a chronic illness, the family confirmed. Her sister Georgia announced the news on Instagram, saying Carpani passed unexpectedly but peacefully in the early hours of Sunday, December 7.

Fast Facts:

• Age: 45
• Cause: Long battle with a chronic illness; passed unexpectedly but peacefully
• Family confirmation: Statement posted by sister Georgia on Instagram
• Private funeral: Scheduled for Friday, December 19
• Best known as: Jodi Fountain on McLeod’s Daughters

The Legacy

Rachael Carpani rose to fame as Jodi Fountain on the beloved Australian drama McLeod’s Daughters (2001–2009), a role that made her a household name across Australia and earned international fans. Her top screen credits include:

1. McLeod’s Daughters — Jodi Fountain (breakout role)
2. Home and Away — guest appearances on Australia’s long-running soap
3. The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee — feature film credit; also appeared in Against the Wall

Family and Industry Tributes

Carpani’s family requested privacy at this difficult time and said they would make no further statements. In Georgia’s Instagram post the family wrote: “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.”

Co-star Bridie Carter — who played Tess Silverman McLeod opposite Carpani — posted a heartfelt tribute, calling her “our beautiful Rach” and “the ‘baby’ of our McLeod’s Daughters family.” Carter’s message offered prayer, sympathy for the Carpani family and affirmed that Carpani will be missed by fans around the world.

Other colleagues and fans have taken to social media to share memories of Carpani’s warmth on set and her impact on Australian television. The family has confirmed a private funeral for close friends and relatives on December 19.

Remembering Rachael

Carpani’s performance as Jodi Fountain helped define a generation of Australian drama viewers and launched a career that crossed both television and film. Her warmth and on-screen presence drew lasting affection from co-stars and audiences alike.

We will update this page with further information from the family when available. Our thoughts are with Rachael Carpani’s loved ones and the many fans who mourn her loss.