Hollywood is mourning the loss of acclaimed Australian-American actor Julian mcmahon, who died peacefully at the age of 56. His wife, Kelly McMahon, shared the sad news on Friday, July 5, 2025, confirming his passing occurred on July 2, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida. McMahon’s death followed a private and courageous battle with cancer, a struggle largely unknown to the public. This announcement sent waves of shock and sadness across the entertainment world and among fans globally.
A Peaceful Passing After a Valiant Fight
The news came via a heartfelt statement from Kelly McMahon shared with “Good Morning America” and other outlets. She conveyed the information “with an open heart,” describing Julian’s passing as peaceful after a “valiant effort to overcome cancer.” The statement painted a picture of a man who deeply cherished his life, his loved ones, his craft, and the people who supported his work. “Julian loved life. He loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans,” the statement read. His greatest desire, according to his wife, was “to bring joy into as many lives as possible.” The family has requested privacy during this difficult time but encouraged others to honor Julian’s memory by continuing to find joy in their own lives. Reports indicate he had been undergoing private treatment for several years while still working when his health permitted.
A Career Defined by Iconic Roles
Julian McMahon built a remarkable career spanning decades in both television and film, captivating audiences with his charisma and versatile performances. Born Julian Dana William McMahon on July 27, 1968, in Sydney, Australia, he hailed from a prominent family; his father was former Australian Prime Minister William McMahon, and his mother was socialite Lady Sonia McMahon. He began his acting journey in Australian soap operas like “Home and Away” in 1990 before moving to the United States, joining NBC’s “Another World” in 1993.
His move to the US marked the beginning of his most globally recognized roles. He achieved widespread fame for his portrayal of the complex, half-demon Cole Turner in the hit series “Charmed,” appearing in 47 episodes between 2000 and 2005. This role solidified his status as a fan favorite and a significant pop culture figure in the early 2000s, particularly known for his character’s dramatic transformations.
McMahon further cemented his reputation as a critically respected actor with his starring role as the charming yet deeply flawed plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy on the acclaimed FX drama “Nip/Tuck” (2003-2010). His performance earned him significant praise and a dedicated following. Beyond television, he took on the role of the villainous Victor Von Doom in the “Fantastic Four” films (2005 and its sequel). His career also included roles in films like “Premonition” (2007) and leading the CBS procedural “FBI: Most Wanted” from 2020 to 2022. Some of his final projects included appearances in the 2025 Netflix thriller “The Surfer” alongside Nicolas Cage and Netflix’s “The Residence.”
Heartfelt Tributes From Co-Stars and Colleagues
Following the news of his death, an outpouring of emotional tributes flooded social media from former co-stars and colleagues across his extensive career. These messages consistently highlighted McMahon’s talent, humor, kindness, and infectious presence.
Remembering the Magic of “Charmed”
Several members of the “Charmed” cast, who recently also mourned the death of their co-star Shannen Doherty, shared their profound grief.
Alyssa Milano, who played his character’s love interest Phoebe Halliwell, expressed being “heartbroken.” She described Julian as “magic,” praising his smile, laugh, talent, and presence. Milano recalled how he “walked into a room and lit it up — not just with charisma, but with kindness. With mischief. With soulful understanding.” She emphasized their bond went beyond the screen, calling him “more than my TV husband,” but a “dear friend.” Losing him felt “unreal. Too soon. Too unfair.”
Holly Marie Combs shared a video montage of moments with McMahon, calling him “one of a kind.” She stated his “unyielding zest for life and crazy making sense of humor will be sorely missed.” Combs added that the “joy and laughter you were the direct cause of will always be remembered.” In a poignant note, she hoped he would “find our lady friend [Shannen Doherty] and dance in those rose petals,” referencing a shared connection.
Rose McGowan paid tribute on Instagram, referring to him as “a force of brilliance, wild talent and humour.” She offered prayers for comfort for his family and added that the “Charmed family loves you.”
Brian Krause, another “Charmed” alum, shared a photo, calling it a “Sad day for our Charmed family!” He remembered McMahon as “one of the funniest, devilishly handsome and kind souls” and sent prayers, stating he “will surely be missed.”
“Nip/Tuck” Cast Remembers Their Colleague
Co-stars from the critically acclaimed series “Nip/Tuck” also shared their shock and sadness.
Kelly Carlson, who played his character’s wife, expressed her deep shock, stating she was unaware of his illness for some time. She recalled years of fun working together and wished him a “peaceful journey,” acknowledging he had a “full, great life.”
Dylan Walsh, another principal co-star, articulated his disbelief, saying he was “stunned.” He added that they “rode this wave together” on the show and declared, “I loved him.”
“Fantastic Four” and Recent Project Tributes
Actors from his film projects also shared their memories.
Ioan Gruffudd, who played his on-screen nemesis Reed Richards in the “Fantastic Four” films, called the news “terribly sad.” Despite their adversarial roles, Gruffudd recalled “so much lightness and laughter working together” off-screen. He stated that “Every encounter with him was a joy” and considered it an “honor” to have worked opposite him, sending his heart to McMahon’s family.
Michael Chiklis, another “Fantastic Four” co-star, emphasized the fragility of life and expressed his devastation, offering condolences to McMahon’s family.
Most recently, Nicolas Cage worked with McMahon on the film “The Surfer.” Cage released a statement calling the news “deeply saddening.” He described McMahon as “the most talented of actors” based on their six weeks working together, stating their scenes were among his favorites he had ever participated in. Cage remembered him as “one of my favorite people,” a “kind and intelligent man,” sending love to his family.
Dick Wolf, producer of “FBI: Most Wanted” where McMahon starred, called his death “shocking news.”
Fans also flooded social media platforms with tributes, sharing clips of his memorable performances, highlighting the impact his roles had on them over the years, particularly his dramatic transformations in “Charmed” and powerful monologues in “Nip/Tuck.”
Legacy of Joy and Talent
Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of bringing captivating characters to life and leaving a lasting impression on those he worked with and entertained. His ability to portray complex roles, from the alluringly dark Cole Turner to the morally ambiguous Christian Troy, showcased his significant talent. Despite the private nature of his health struggles in recent years, he continued to work, demonstrating his dedication to his craft. The consistent themes in the tributes from colleagues — highlighting his kindness, humor, and ability to light up a room — paint a picture of a man who lived his deepest wish: to bring joy to others. His impact across diverse fandoms ensures his work will continue to be celebrated, even as Hollywood mourns the loss of one of its beloved stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Julian McMahon’s cause of death?
Julian McMahon died after a private battle with cancer. According to the statement released by his wife, Kelly McMahon, he died peacefully on July 2, 2025, following a valiant effort to overcome the illness. The specific type of cancer was not publicly disclosed.
Which famous TV shows and movies did Julian McMahon star in?
Julian McMahon was best known for starring in the television series “Charmed,” where he played Cole Turner, and “Nip/Tuck,” portraying Dr. Christian Troy. He also played the villain Victor Von Doom in the “Fantastic Four” films. His career spanned other projects like “FBI: Most Wanted,” “Premonition,” and recent films like “The Surfer.”
Which co-stars paid tribute to Julian McMahon after his death?
Many co-stars from his most famous projects shared tributes. From “Charmed,” messages came from Alyssa Milano, Holly Marie Combs, Rose McGowan, and Brian Krause. “Nip/Tuck” co-stars Kelly Carlson and Dylan Walsh also paid respects. “Fantastic Four” colleagues Ioan Gruffudd and Michael Chiklis shared condolences. Nicolas Cage, who recently worked with him on “The Surfer,” also offered a tribute, as did Dick Wolf, producer of “FBI: Most Wanted.”
The passing of Julian McMahon marks a significant loss for the entertainment industry. His memorable roles and the warm sentiments shared by those who knew him ensure his legacy will endure. He will be remembered not only for his on-screen presence but also for the kindness and joy he brought to the lives of his colleagues and fans.
