Acclaimed actor Julian McMahon, best known for his unforgettable roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, Fantastic Four, and FBI: Most Wanted, has passed away at the age of 56. His death, confirmed by his wife Kelly McMahon, followed a private battle with cancer that had not been publicly disclosed.
In a heartfelt statement released on July 4, Kelly McMahon said,
“With an open heart, I wish to share with the world that my beloved husband, Julian McMahon, died peacefully this week after a valiant effort to overcome cancer.”
“Julian lived with a bold and pure heart. He was fearless in everything he pursued, and he did so with passion, strength, and a deep sense of purpose. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible. We ask for support and understanding as we take the time to grieve privately as a family.”
A Life in the Spotlight
Born July 27, 1968, in Sydney, Australia, Julian Dana William McMahon was the son of Sir William McMahon, former Prime Minister of Australia, and Lady Sonia McMahon. He initially gained attention as a model before turning to acting, beginning with roles on Australian soaps The Power, The Passion and Home and Away in the late 1980s.
McMahon rose to international stardom in the U.S. with roles in Another World and Profiler, but it was his performance as the enigmatic Cole Turner on the supernatural series Charmed that earned him a loyal fanbase. His star power soared in 2003 when he took on the provocative role of plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy in Ryan Murphy’s Nip/Tuck, a performance that earned him a Golden Globe nomination and critical acclaim for its emotional depth and dark complexity.
In 2005, McMahon brought Marvel villain Victor Von Doom—better known as Doctor Doom—to life in Fantastic Four, reprising the role in the 2007 sequel. He later portrayed Special Agent Jess LaCroix in CBS’s FBI: Most Wanted, leading the series from 2020 to 2022.
Final Appearances and Legacy
Despite his illness, McMahon remained active in his final years. Earlier this year, he appeared in the psychological drama The Surfer, which premiered at SXSW in March. He also had a role in Netflix’s upcoming mystery drama The Residence.
His final public appearance came at the SXSW premiere of The Surfer, where he walked the red carpet alongside co-star Nicolas Cage. Friends and colleagues say McMahon remained full of energy and graciousness during the event, unaware it would be his final public outing.
Tributes Pour In
Fans and colleagues around the world have taken to social media to express their condolences and celebrate McMahon’s life. He is remembered not only as a gifted actor, but as a kind-hearted and generous person who never took his fame for granted.
Actor Dylan Walsh, McMahon’s Nip/Tuck co-star, wrote on social media:
“Julian was an incredible actor and a generous soul. He lit up every set he stepped onto and gave everything to his craft. He will be deeply missed.”
A Private Farewell
Julian McMahon is survived by his wife, Kelly McMahon, and his daughter Madison from his first marriage. The family has asked for privacy as they mourn this tremendous loss.
As one of the most versatile and charismatic actors of his generation, Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances, beloved characters, and a lasting impact on television and film. His contributions to the entertainment world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Julian McMahon (1968–2025).
