'N.C.I.S: Los Angeles' legendary star Rachael Carpani dies at 45

N.C.I.S: Los Angeles iconic actress Rachael Carpani has died at the age of 45 as the heartbreaking news confirmed by her family.

On Monday, December 15, her sister Georgia shared a statement from their parents, Tony and Gael Carpani, on Instagram, announcing that the actress passed away after a long struggle with 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.

The message also noted, “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.

Carpani was best known for her role as Jodi Fountain on the long running Australian drama McLeod’s Daughters, where she appeared from 2001 to 2009.

Her performance on the series made her a familiar and well loved face on Australian television.

In addition to her work in Australia, Carpani appeared in several U.S. television shows and films as the star's credits included NCIS: Los Angeles, The Glades, The Rachels, If There Be Thorns and Lifetime’s Against the Wall in which she played the lead role.

Rachael Carpani also starred in the 2009 thriller Triangle alongside Liam Hemsworth.