Hollywood is mourning the loss of beloved actor julian McMahon, known for captivating audiences in iconic roles across television and film. The star, celebrated for his work in series like Charmed and Nip/Tuck, has passed away at the age of 56 following a battle with cancer. His death was confirmed by his wife, Kelly McMahon, in a heartfelt statement. The news has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from his former colleagues, painting a picture of a man remembered for his charisma, kindness, humor, and deep devotion to his family.
Julian McMahon leaves behind a significant legacy in entertainment. Fans will remember his compelling portrayal of the complex half-demon Cole Turner on The WB’s popular supernatural drama Charmed. He also earned widespread acclaim as the quick-witted and morally ambiguous plastic surgeon Christian Troy on the FX hit Nip/Tuck. On the big screen, he took on the iconic villain role of Doctor Doom in the 2005 Fantastic Four film and its 2007 sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer. His passing marks a profound loss for the industry and his many admirers.
Emotional Tributes from the Charmed Family
The news of Julian McMahon’s death hit particularly hard for the cast of Charmed, where he spent several years creating a memorable character and forming lasting bonds. Many shared deeply personal messages reflecting on their time working together.
Alyssa Milano, who starred opposite McMahon as Phoebe Halliwell and his on-screen love interest, was among the first to express her sorrow. Sharing poignant photos, Milano conveyed that she was “heartbroken” by the news. She described Julian as “magic,” highlighting his infectious smile, distinctive laugh, immense talent, and powerful presence. According to Milano, he didn’t just light up a room with charisma; he did so with genuine kindness, playful mischief, and profound “soulful understanding.”
Milano reflected on their extensive time together on the Charmed set, recalling countless scenes, stories, and shared moments between takes. She emphasized the positive impact he had on her career and personal growth, stating he made her feel “safe as an actor” and “seen as a woman.” Their relationship was dynamic, involving challenges, teasing, and unwavering support. Despite their differences, Milano felt they shared a unique understanding.
She stressed that Julian was far more than just her television husband; he was a “dear friend.” Milano remembered him as a thoughtful confidante who consistently checked in, remembered important details about her life, shared openly about his own experiences, and offered honest truths, always delivered “with love.” A theme that resonated strongly with Milano was Julian’s deep commitment to his family. She lovingly referred to his wife and daughters as “his girls, his world,” noting that his adoration for them was palpable in every interaction and story he shared. Milano firmly stated that he was “a family man above all, and he loved deeply.” For Milano, the loss felt “unreal. Too soon. Too unfair.” She vowed to carry his distinct laugh with her, bidding farewell to both the character he played and the man he was: “Forever Cole. Forever Julian.”
Holly Marie Combs, who played Piper Halliwell on Charmed, also shared a tribute, posting a photo montage. She described Julian as “One of a kind,” lamenting that 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.”
Rose McGowan, who joined the series as Paige Matthews, honored McMahon as a “force of brilliance, wild talent and humour.” She sent prayers for him, his family, and his global fanbase, wishing them comfort. In a simple yet powerful message, she affirmed, “The Charmed family loves you,” before adding a final “Goodbye Julian.”
Brian Krause, known for his role as Leo Wyatt on Charmed, described the news as a “sad day for our Charmed family.” He fondly remembered Julian as “one of the funniest, devilishly handsome and kind souls” he had known. Krause extended his prayers to Julian’s family and friends, concluding that he would be “surely be missed!” The collective memories from the Charmed set highlight McMahon’s profound positive influence on his colleagues.
Remembering Doctor Doom: Tributes from the Fantastic Four Cast
Julian McMahon’s turn as the villainous Doctor Doom in the Fantastic Four films also left a significant impression on his co-stars from that franchise. Despite playing adversaries on screen, the actors shared a warm dynamic off-camera.
Ioan Gruffudd, who played Reed Richards (Mr. Fantastic) opposite McMahon’s Doctor Doom, shared his sadness. He noted the striking contrast between their on-screen rivalry and their off-screen relationship, stating that “there was always so much lightness and laughter working together.” Gruffudd described every encounter with Julian as a “joy” and considered it “an honor to be Dr. Richards to his Dr. Doom.” He extended his heartfelt condolences to Julian’s wife and family during this difficult time.
Michael Chiklis, who portrayed Ben Grimm (The Thing) in the films, also expressed his devastation at the passing of his friend. Sharing a photo with McMahon and Jessica Alba, Chiklis remarked on the fragility of life, stating that Julian’s death serves as a poignant reminder that “life is so precious and fragile.” He also offered his deepest condolences to Julian’s family. These tributes underscore McMahon’s ability to foster camaraderie even while playing complex or antagonistic characters.
Tributes from Nip/Tuck Co-Stars
Julian McMahon’s charismatic performance as Christian Troy on Nip/Tuck was a defining role of his career, and his colleagues from that acclaimed series also shared their grief.
Joely Richardson, who starred as Julia McNamara on the show, shared her memories on Instagram. She recalled how Julian “could be hysterically funny” and possessed immense charisma. Richardson sent her “enormous condolences to your family and children,” acknowledging that he “lived a large life my friend, Bravo.”
Kelly Carlson, who played Kimber Henry on Nip/Tuck, shared her reaction in an Instagram video. She expressed being “completely shocked and saddened” by the death of her “good friend” Julian McMahon, reflecting the shock felt by many in the entertainment community.
Legacy of Joy and Family Devotion
Beyond his well-known roles in fantasy, medical drama, and superhero films, Julian McMahon recently appeared in projects like FBI: Most Wanted, Netflix’s The Residence, and The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat. Uzo Aduba, who worked with him on some of these recent endeavors, also shared a heartfelt tribute. She remarked on having the pleasure of working with him twice in a single year, describing him as consistently “cool, calm, collected.” Aduba highlighted his genuine excitement for her impending motherhood and his willingness to offer parenting guidance, showcasing his personal warmth. She praised his talent, love for life, energy, and intelligence, sending love to his loved ones and wishing him “rest in perfect peace, with confidence it was a race well run.”
In a statement confirming his death, Julian McMahon’s wife, Kelly McMahon, shared details of his final moments. She revealed that her “beloved husband” died peacefully after a “valiant effort to overcome cancer.” With an “open heart,” she shared that Julian deeply loved life, his family, friends, work, and fans. His “deepest wish,” she stated, was always “to bring joy into as many lives as possible.” Kelly requested privacy for the family during this grieving period and expressed the hope that all those to whom Julian brought joy would “continue to find joy in life.” Julian had reportedly not publicly disclosed his cancer diagnosis prior to his passing.
Julian McMahon also shared a child, daughter Madison, with his ex-wife, actress Brooke Burns. Following the news, Burns shared a photo of Julian and Madison on social media, accompanied by a broken heart emoji, indicating the profound loss felt by their family.
The overwhelming sentiment from those who knew Julian McMahon is one of profound sadness mixed with gratitude for his presence. The tributes from his diverse group of colleagues across different projects consistently highlight his kindness, humor, charisma, and deep love for his family, painting a poignant picture of the man behind the memorable characters. His passing at a relatively young age is a stark reminder of the precious and fragile nature of life, as noted by his former Fantastic Four co-star.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did actor Julian McMahon die?
Actor Julian McMahon passed away at the age of 56 after battling cancer. The news was confirmed by his wife, Kelly McMahon, who stated that he died peacefully after a “valiant effort to overcome cancer.” The specific type of cancer was not publicly disclosed prior to his death, which occurred on July 2nd in Clearwater, Florida.
Which television shows and movies was Julian McMahon famous for?
Julian McMahon was widely known for his significant roles in popular television series and films. He starred as the captivating Christian Troy in the FX drama Nip/Tuck and portrayed the memorable character Cole Turner on The WB’s supernatural show Charmed. On the film side, he was recognized for playing the villainous Doctor Doom in the 2005 movie Fantastic Four and its 2007 sequel, Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.
What have Julian McMahon’s former costars said about him since his death?
Julian McMahon’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from his former colleagues across various projects. Cast members from Charmed, including Alyssa Milano, Holly Marie Combs, Rose McGowan, and Brian Krause, remembered him for his charisma, kindness, humor, and supportive nature. Stars from Fantastic Four, like Ioan Gruffudd and Michael Chiklis, recalled his professionalism and the lightheartedness he brought to set despite playing rivals. Colleagues from Nip/Tuck, such as Joely Richardson and Kelly Carlson, also shared memories of his humor and charm. A common theme across tributes is his deep love for his family and his positive impact on those he worked with.
Julian McMahon’s passing leaves a void in the entertainment world, but his work and the fond memories shared by his colleagues and family ensure his legacy will endure. The numerous heartfelt tributes stand as a testament to the kind of man he was off-screen – a warm, humorous, and devoted individual who deeply impacted those around him and consistently sought to bring joy into the lives of others. His memorable performances in Charmed, Nip/Tuck, Fantastic Four, and other projects will continue to be celebrated by fans worldwide.
References
- www.usatoday.com
- www.today.com
- www.thewrap.com
- <a href="https://www.imdb.com/news/ni65365919/?ref=nwcart_perm”>www.imdb.com
- www.justjared.com
