10 minutes ago: Police unexpectedly announce that Rachael Carpani’s death was not due to illness, but the exact cause has left her family devastated and speechless.

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Australian actress Rachael Carpani has died at the age of 45.

On Monday, Dec. 15, her sister Georgia shared a statement from their parents on Instagram, announcing that she had passed away following a chronic illness.

“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 statement read.

Rachael Carpani attends a fundraiser for the Australian Theatre Company
David Livingston/Getty

The post added, “The funeral will be a private event, to be held on Friday 19th December with close family and friends.”

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

Rachael Carpani arrives at the opening night of Australian Theatre Company's "Ruben Guthrie"
Rachael Carpani at the opening night of Australian Theatre Company’s Ruben Guthrie at The Matrix Theatre on June 7, 2016 in Los Angeles.Paul Redmond/Getty

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While Rachael was best known for playing Jodi Fountain in the Australian series McLeod’s Daughters from 2001 and 2009, she also appeared in several U.S. shows and films, according to imdb.

She featured in N.C.I.S: Los Angeles, The Rachels, If There Be Thorns, The Glades and played the lead role in Lifetime’s Against the Wall.

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She also starred in the 2009 movie Triangle alongside Liam Hemsworth.

Back in August, Rachael’s sister penned a sweet tribute to her on her birthday.

Rachael Carpani attends the 7th AACTA Awards
Rachael Carpani at the 7th AACTA Awards at The Star on December 6, 2017 in Sydney, Australia.Lisa Maree Williams/Getty

“Whether she’s done up and going out or staying in and working, she’s the most beautiful woman I know,” Georgia wrote. “Happiest of birthdays to my gorgeous sister @rachcarpani. You bring so much light and joy and we love you so much! ♥️🎂🥳🥂.”

The post included a photo of Rachel smiling while holding a drink and another snap of her working behind a laptop.

Many fans also left comments under a pinned photo of Georgia and Rachael from September 2024.

“I am so incredibly saddened to learn of your darling sisters passing. I am so sorry. I grew up watching & wanting to be her. Sending much love and enveloping hugs to your family. 💛,” one person said.

A second added, “Praying for your beautiful family! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏.”

“I loved your sister in McLeod’s daughters! Sorry for your loss! Xo ❤️,” another wrote.

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