A beloved Australian actress known for her roles in McLeod’s Daughters and Home and Away has “unexpectedly but peacefully” died.

Rachael Carpani, known for playing Jodi Fountain in McLeod’s Daughters from 2001 to 2009, died on Sunday, December 7, following a long battle with chronic illness.

The 45-year-old’s sister, Georgia, confirmed the devastating news on Monday afternoon by sharing a statement on social media.

“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 post read.

“The family requests privacy at this very difficult time and will be making no further statements.”

In the post, the family also confirmed they will be holding a private funeral for the star with close family and friends later this week.

Her McLeod’s Daughters co-star, Bridie Carter, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt tribute in the wake of the tragic news.

“This is the most difficult post,” Carter wrote, re-sharing Georgia’s post about Carpani’s death.

“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.

“We miss you Rach. May your blessed spirit, so vivid, so full of life, laughter, joy, generosity, unique talent, energy, fervour, intelligence, resilience, courage and great humour, and a gentle humility, may you rest in peace.”

Carpani made headlines in 2021 when she was rushed to hospital with abdominal pain, telling her fans she had to undergo surgery for an unnamed illness.

In March last year, Carpani shared images from a time she got back in front of a  camera for a photoshoot, saying: “No hospital gown, no awesome surgery socks…have to admit I miss the comfort.”

Her leading stint on the popular Aussie drama earned her two Logie nominations, both in 2007: The Silver Logie for Most Popular Actress and the coveted Gold Logie.

Carpani went on to star in several movies and shows including 800 Words, Law Dogs, Against The Wall and Home and Away in 2024 as Claudia Salini.

Carpani’s death comes two years after her co-star Peter Hardy drowned while snorkelling at South Beach in Fremantle in March, 2023.

The 66-year-old was believed to have been visiting Perth, where he grew up, from London to see his elderly mother.