Australian actress Rachael Carpani, best known for her role as Jodi Fountain on McLeod’s Daughters and a guest appearance on NCIS: Los Angeles, has died at the age of 45.
Her sister, Georgia Carpani, confirmed the news in an Instagram post, revealing that the actress passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully” on December 7 following a long battle with chronic illness. The family has requested privacy, with funeral services set to be held privately.
Carpani portrayed Jodi Fountain across all eight seasons of McLeod’s Daughters, becoming one of the show’s most beloved characters. Though Jodi was written out in Season 7 via a witness protection storyline, Carpani returned for a final appearance in the series finale. Her performance helped define the show’s emotional core during its peak years.
In the U.S., Carpani appeared in Season 1 of NCIS: Los Angeles and later worked in both American and Australian productions, including Home and Away and the film The Way Back.
Tributes from co-stars and fans have highlighted her warmth, resilience, and lasting impact on Australian television. Her death marks a profound loss for audiences around the world who grew up watching her work.
