Rachael Carpani, the acclaimed Australian actress best known for her role as Jodi Fountain on the hit television series McLeod’s Daughters has died. She was just 45 years old when she shocked the world by passing away unexpectedly. Her death leaves an enormous void in the entertainment community. Fans of the long-running show, which struck a chord with audiences all over Australia, are particularly devastated.
Carpani’s journey started with guest roles on popular TV series like All Saints and Home and Away. Her incandescent portrayal of spirited teenager Jodi Fountain launched her to global superstardom. When she came onto the set of McLeod’s Daughters in 2001, audiences were immediately taken with her character. Her dazzling performance garnered her heaps of critical acclaim. She was nominated for two prestigious Logie Awards, including a Gold Logie nomination in 2007.
Even after all her on-screen triumphs, Carpani’s outside life was a constant struggle against devastating health challenges. She fought endometriosis, a debilitating inflammatory disease in which tissue from the endometrium grows outside the uterus. Like many others, she has lived with chronic pain since age 13. By her mid-30s, the pain had progressed to adenomyosis. Carpani wasn’t afraid to be open about her health challenges and became a passionate advocate for women’s health.
“Australia is woefully, woefully behind when it comes to women’s health,” – Rachael Carpani
In interviews, Carpani expressed her discontent with the medical establishment. She highlighted the absence of compassion and belief for women in pain from endometriosis. Her desire to talk about her experience was to help educate people about this misunderstood and widely unknown disease.
Carpani’s career extended beyond Australian television. After moving to Hollywood, she worked diligently to secure roles that showcased her talent. She appeared in smaller parts on series such as NCIS: Los Angeles and The Glades, eventually landing leading roles in family dramas like Against The Wall and alongside Ben Affleck in the 2020 film Finding the Way Back.
Even as she became more popular, Carpani kept a level-headed outlook on celebrity culture. She once stated,
“I don’t want to be famous! Earning a living would be nice. I adore ‘action’ to ‘cut’, but everything else – the networking, the hobnobbing, the dealing with sleazy directors – I just don’t want any of it.” – Rachael Carpani
Carpani’s untimely death at age 61 has created a hole for everyone who knew her personally, or appreciated her work. Friends and colleagues have been sharing their sadness and honoring her bright, beautiful soul. Perhaps the best tribute to their friendship came from fellow actor Ving Rhames, who shared,
“This is the wrong order of things. We are better people for having the privilege of sharing time with you.”
A private burial service for Rachael Carpani was held on December 19, among family and close friends. That legacy continues to dazzle through her talented actress and performer daughters! She advocated ardently for women’s health, having inspired everyone who admired her work and mettle.
“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.” – Carter
Actor Matt Passmore also shared his condolences:
“Farewell my friend. All the love I have to the Carpanis, friends and family. The greatest gift you gave was knowing you.” – Matt Passmore
A private funeral for Rachael Carpani took place on December 19, surrounded by family and close friends. Her legacy as a talented actress and advocate for women’s health will continue to inspire those who admired her work and courage.