A popular Australian actress who starred in the beloved Aussie show Home and Away has died ‘unexpectedly but peacefully’.

Family, friends and fans have paid their respects to 45-year-old TV star Rachael Carpani, famous for her eight-year stint as Jodi Fountain on the Australian TV drama McLeod’s Daughters, before taking on several U.S. roles and eventually joining the Home and Away cast in 2024.

Rachael’s parents confirmed her sudden passing had taken place last week, in a heartbreaking message posted to social media, asking for privacy for this difficult time, the Mirror reported.

“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,” the family wrote.

“The family requests privacy at this very difficult time and will be making no further statements,” the statement concluded, adding that Rachael’s funeral will be a “private event”.

Rachael began her portrayal of Claudia Salini in a recurring role for Home and Away, which became a UK hit in the 90s, last year.

Fellow Australian actress and McLeod’s Daughters co-star Bridie Carter paid tribute on social media in a lengthy statement, stating: “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.”