Hollywood mourns the loss of Julian McMahon, the charismatic Australian actor best known for his roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and Fantastic Four, who passed away at the age of 56 following a private fight with cancer.
McMahon died peacefully at his home in Clearwater, Florida, on July 2, 2025, according to a statement released by his wife, Kelly Paniagua. The actor had been privately battling cancer for an undisclosed period, choosing to keep his diagnosis and treatment journey away from the public eye.
“Julian approached his illness with strength and grace, maintaining his warmth, wit, and love for his family until the very end,” his wife said in a heartfelt message. “He wished for nothing more than to bring light and joy into the lives of others.”
A Life in the Spotlight
Born on July 27, 1968, in Sydney, Australia, Julian Dana William McMahon was the son of Sir William McMahon, the former Prime Minister of Australia. Though he came from a political legacy, Julian carved his own path in the world of entertainment.
He began his career as a model before stepping into acting with roles in Australian TV dramas like Home and Away. However, it wasn’t long before Hollywood noticed his striking presence and talent.
Breakthrough Roles in the U.S.
McMahon gained widespread fame in the early 2000s as Cole Turner in the supernatural hit series Charmed, where he played a complex character caught between good and evil. His portrayal earned him a loyal fan base.
But it was his role as Dr. Christian Troy in the FX drama Nip/Tuck that solidified his status as a leading man. From 2003 to 2010, McMahon captivated audiences with his nuanced performance as the arrogant yet deeply flawed plastic surgeon. His work on the show earned him a Golden Globe nomination and critical acclaim for portraying morally ambiguous characters with emotional depth.
He also made his mark on the big screen, notably as the villain Victor Von Doom in the Fantastic Four films (2005 and 2007), proving his versatility in both television and cinema.
Recent Work and Resurgence
Even in his final years, McMahon continued to take on high-profile roles. He starred as Agent Jess LaCroix in the CBS crime drama FBI: Most Wanted from 2020 to 2022, a role that introduced him to a new generation of viewers.
He most recently appeared in Netflix’s political mystery The Residence and the indie thriller The Surfer, which premiered at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, earning praise for his powerful performance.
A Legacy Remembered
McMahon was known not only for his on-screen presence but for his humility, charm, and professionalism off camera. He often spoke about choosing roles that challenged him and reflected his desire to explore the human condition.
He is survived by his wife Kelly and his daughter Madison McMahon, 25, from his previous marriage to actress Brooke Burns. McMahon was also previously married to singer Dannii Minogue, his first wife.
Julian McMahon’s passing leaves a deep void in the world of television and film. His ability to bring vulnerability and complexity to his characters made him a standout in every role he played. Though gone too soon, his legacy as an actor and entertainer will live on in the hearts of fans around the globe.
Rest in peace, Julian. Your light will continue to shine through the stories you told.
