‘NCIS’ actress dies ‘unexpectedly’ at 45

Actress Rachel Carpani, whose credits include a 2009 episode of “NCIS: Los Angeles,” has died. She was 45.

Carpani’s sister Georgia announced the news via Instagram on Monday, Dec. 15.

“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,” Georgia wrote.

“The funeral will be a private event, to be held on Friday 19th December with close family and friends,” she continued. “The family requests privacy at this very difficult time and will be making no further statements.”

Although Georgia did not specify what chronic illness Carpani was battling, the actress previously opened up about her struggles with endometriosis and adenomyosis in 2021.

“I consider myself VERY lucky that I have now found two incredible specialists … who are dealing successfully with my endometriosis and adenomyosis,” Carpani wrote via Instagram at the time, noting that she had gone from an “8-9 on the pain scale” to “about a 2-3 on the pain scale, which I consider PAIN free.”

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the inner lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, and adenomyosis is when tissue that lines the inside of the uterus grows into the muscle wall of the uterus. Both conditions are associated with chronic pain, including severe cramping and pelvic pain, and increased risk of infertility.

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While the conditions are not typically life-threatening, they can cause serious complications that can be dangerous without treatment.

Carpani was best known for her role as Jodi Fountain in the Australian drama series “McLeod’s Daughters.” She also made appearances on TV shows including “NCIS: Los Angeles” (Amy), “Triangle” (Sally) and “The Way Back” (Diane).