The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Julian mcmahon, the charismatic actor known for iconic roles in television dramas like “Nip/Tuck” and “Charmed,” as well as portraying the formidable villain Doctor Doom in the “Fantastic Four” films. McMahon passed away peacefully this week at the age of 56 following a private battle with cancer. His death marks the end of a versatile career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide.
Confirmation of his passing came from his wife, Kelly McMahon. In a heartfelt statement, she shared that Julian died on Wednesday, July 2, in Clearwater, Florida. His death occurred after a courageous fight against cancer. “Julian loved life,” Kelly McMahon’s statement read. “He loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans.” She added that his “deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible.” The family has requested privacy during this profoundly difficult time while expressing gratitude for the shared memories.
Remembering a Versatile Talent
Julian McMahon was born on July 27, 1968, in Sydney, Australia. He came from a prominent political family; his father, Sir William McMahon, served as Australia’s Prime Minister from 1971 to 1972. His mother was the notable socialite, Sonia McMahon. Despite his distinguished background, Julian forged his own path in the entertainment industry, initially starting his career as a model before transitioning to acting in Australian soap operas such as “The Power, the Passion” and “Home and Away” in the early 1990s. He made his feature film debut in the 1992 Australian movie “Wet and Wild Summer!”
Transition to American Television Success
McMahon soon set his sights on Hollywood. He landed his first role on American television in 1993, appearing on the NBC daytime drama “Another World.” This led to a series regular role on the NBC crime drama “Profiler,” where he portrayed Detective John Grant for four seasons. However, his career took a significant turn when he joined the cast of the popular supernatural series “Charmed” on The WB.
From 2000 to 2005, McMahon captivated audiences as Cole Turner, a complex character who was a half-human, half-demon. His performance spanned three seasons and earned him significant recognition, establishing him as a familiar face to fans of fantasy dramas. His work on “Charmed” showcased his ability to blend intensity with vulnerability.
Becoming a Leading Man in Prime Time
McMahon’s leading-man status was cemented in 2003 when he took on the role of Dr. Christian Troy in Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking FX series “Nip/Tuck.” For six seasons, he starred alongside Dylan Walsh, who played his best friend and business partner, Dr. Sean McNamara. McMahon’s portrayal of Christian Troy, a charming yet self-destructive playboy plastic surgeon, was a career-defining performance.
The series explored the ethical dilemmas and personal chaos surrounding their plastic surgery practice, which moved from Miami to Los Angeles. McMahon’s nuanced performance as the morally ambiguous Christian Troy earned him critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor in a Television Drama Series. His chemistry with Walsh and his ability to portray a character filled with both charisma and deep flaws resonated strongly with viewers and critics alike.
Further Prominent Roles and Film Work
Following “Nip/Tuck,” McMahon continued to take on significant television roles. He joined the CBS procedural “FBI: Most Wanted” as team leader Jess LaCroix. He starred in the series for three seasons before departing in March 2022 to focus on his health and pursue other projects. His television work also included a stint on Hulu’s “Marvel’s Runaways.”
Beyond television, McMahon is widely recognized for his portrayal of the iconic Marvel Comics villain Doctor Victor Von Doom. He played the character in the 2005 film “Fantastic Four” and reprised the role in the 2007 sequel, “Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.” These roles brought him mainstream recognition in the superhero genre. His other film credits include “Premonition,” “RED,” “Paranoia,” and “You’re Not You.” He returned to Australia for the 2018 comedy-drama “Swinging Safari,” co-starring with Kylie Minogue. One of his final projects was the 2024 film “The Surfer” with Nicolas Cage, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival.
Fittingly, in one of his last roles, McMahon played the Australian Prime Minister in the 2025 Netflix series “The Residence,” a nod to his family’s political legacy.
Tributes Pour In From Co-Stars and Colleagues
News of Julian McMahon’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from those who worked with him. Alyssa Milano, his co-star from “Charmed,” shared her grief, calling him “magic” and “more than my TV husband,” but a “dear friend.” She described losing him as “unreal. Too soon. Too unfair.” Milano remembered his smile, laugh, talent, and presence, noting how he “walked into a room and lit it up — not just with charisma, but with kindness. With mischief. With soulful understanding.” She also reflected on their working relationship, saying he “made me feel safe as an actor. Seen as a woman… We were so different, and yet somehow we always understood each other.”
Dylan Walsh, who shared the screen with McMahon for years on “Nip/Tuck,” expressed his shock. “I’m stunned,” Walsh stated, recalling their time together. “We rode this wave together and I loved him… All those years you had my back, and my god, we laughed.” Holly Marie Combs, another “Charmed” alum, also paid tribute, remembering his “unyielding zest for life and crazy making sense of humor” which she said would be “sorely missed.” She added that “The joy and laughter you were the direct cause of will always be remembered.”
Nicolas Cage, who worked with McMahon on “The Surfer,” praised him as “talented” and “one of my favorite people.” He called him a “kind and intelligent man.” Dick Wolf, the executive producer of the FBI franchise, expressed his deep sadness over McMahon’s passing. Warner Bros. Television, the studio behind “Nip/Tuck,” acknowledged his passing, noting the “indelible mark” he left on television history. His ex-wife, Brooke Burns, also shared a tribute with a simple message and a photo of McMahon with their daughter.
A Lasting Legacy
Julian McMahon is survived by his wife, Kelly McMahon, whom he married in 2014. He is also survived by his daughter, Madison McMahon, from his previous marriage to actress Brooke Burns. He was also previously married to singer and television personality Dannii Minogue in the 1990s.
Throughout his career, Julian McMahon was celebrated for his ability to inhabit complex characters, from the demonic Cole Turner to the morally ambiguous Christian Troy and the determined Jess LaCroix, alongside his memorable turn as Doctor Doom. His performances were characterized by charisma, intensity, and a depth that resonated with audiences. His dedication to his craft, even while navigating personal health challenges, exemplified his passion for acting. Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a warmth remembered by colleagues and fans alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Julian McMahon’s death and how old was he?
Julian McMahon died at the age of 56. His death followed a private battle with cancer. He passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, according to a statement from his wife, Kelly McMahon.
What were Julian McMahon’s most famous acting roles?
Julian McMahon is widely known for several key roles. He portrayed the half-demon Cole Turner on the supernatural series “Charmed” for three seasons. He starred as the charismatic plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy on the acclaimed FX drama “Nip/Tuck,” a role for which he received a Golden Globe nomination. He also played the villain Doctor Doom in the “Fantastic Four” films released in 2005 and 2007, and led the cast of the CBS procedural “FBI: Most Wanted” for three seasons as Jess LaCroix.
Who is Julian McMahon survived by?
Julian McMahon is survived by his wife, Kelly McMahon, whom he married in 2014. He is also survived by his daughter, Madison McMahon, from his previous marriage to actress Brooke Burns. He was also previously married to Dannii Minogue. His family released a statement confirming his passing and requesting privacy.
Julian McMahon’s career reflected remarkable versatility, moving effortlessly between genres and leaving an enduring impact on both television and film. His contributions to series like “Nip/Tuck” and “Charmed,” along with his memorable portrayal of a classic comic book villain, ensured his place in pop culture. As colleagues and fans remember his talent and spirit, his work continues to bring joy to those who watch.
