Julian McMahon is dead: 10 things to know about Nip/Tuck & Fantastic Four actor

The entertainment world is mourning the passing of Julian McMahon, the suave Australian actor who left a lasting imprint on both TV and film screens around the globe. Known for his magnetic presence in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and Fantastic Four, McMahon died on July 2, 2025, at the age of 56, following a private battle with cancer.

The news was confirmed by his wife, Kelly Paniagua, in a heartfelt statement:

“Julian passed peacefully, surrounded by those who loved him most. He was a warrior, artist, father, and friend. He never let the spotlight blind him from the beauty of life.”

Fans around the world are now reflecting on his legacy—not just for the roles he played but for the style, intensity, and emotional range he brought to every screen appearance.

From Soap Operas to Hollywood Fame

Born in Sydney, Australia, on July 27, 1968, Julian Dana William McMahon began his career in local soap operas. He first appeared in The Power, The Passion before rising to stardom as Ben Lucini on the long-running series Home and Away (1989–90). With striking looks and screen charisma, McMahon quickly caught the attention of international casting agents.

His move to the U.S. saw him land a breakout role in the NBC crime series Profiler (1996–2000), where he played FBI Agent John Grant. This marked the beginning of his long-running presence in American television.

The Charmed Years: When Julian Became Cole

McMahon became a pop culture icon when he starred as Cole Turner, a conflicted demon-turned-lover in the supernatural hit series Charmed (2000–2003). His chemistry with Alyssa Milano’s character, Phoebe Halliwell, made the Cole-Phoebe arc one of the show’s most beloved storylines.

With dark intensity and romantic vulnerability, McMahon brought emotional depth to a role that could’ve easily been one-dimensional. Fans still rank Cole Turner among the most iconic anti-heroes in fantasy TV.

Dr. Christian Troy: A Career-Defining Performance in Nip/Tuck

Perhaps Julian McMahon’s most acclaimed performance came in FX’s boundary-pushing drama Nip/Tuck (2003–2009), where he starred as Dr. Christian Troy—a vain, womanising plastic surgeon with hidden trauma.

McMahon’s performance was nothing short of revelatory. He delivered equal parts arrogance and anguish, embodying a man whose polished exterior masked emotional fragility. For this role, he earned a Golden Globe nomination and helped redefine what cable television drama could be in the early 2000s.

Fantastic Four and Supervillain Stardom

Julian McMahon made his mark on the big screen as the iconic Marvel villain Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four (2005) and its sequel Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). Though the films received mixed reviews, McMahon’s portrayal of the powerful and calculating Victor Von Doom was widely praised for its suave menace.

This role further cemented him as a go-to actor for complex characters who blur the lines between good and evil.

Later Career and Return to Primetime

McMahon continued building a robust career post-Nip/Tuck, including roles in Premonition opposite Sandra Bullock, Marvel’s Runaways, and FBI: Most Wanted, where he played Special Agent Jess LaCroix from 2020 to 2022.

His performance in FBI: Most Wanted earned acclaim for its grounded leadership and emotional subtlety. McMahon eventually exited the show to pursue “creative expansion,” reflecting his constant evolution as an actor.

Family, Legacy, and Personal Life

Beyond the screen, Julian McMahon was known for his thoughtful nature, artistic interests, and love of privacy. He was the son of Sir William McMahon, Australia’s 20th Prime Minister, and Lady Sonia McMahon, a celebrated socialite and philanthropist.

He married model and actress Kelly Paniagua in 2014, and the couple shared a deep, quiet bond. Julian is also survived by his daughter, Madison, from his previous marriage to Baywatch actress Brooke Burns.

10 Things You Should Know About Julian McMahon

1. He was born into Australian political royalty, as the son of a former Prime Minister.

2. He began his career as a model before acting.

3. His TV breakthrough in the U.S. came on Profiler.

4. He had a cult following thanks to Charmed.

5. He was nominated for a Golden Globe for Nip/Tuck.

6. He portrayed Doctor Doom in two Marvel films.

7. He left FBI: Most Wanted to explore new artistic paths.

8. He was fluent in both American and Australian culture, holding dual citizenship.

9. He avoided the Hollywood spotlight, opting for a quiet life.

10. He died after a private battle with cancer, which he never made public.

Farewell to a Gentleman of the Screen

Julian McMahon’s death is not just a loss to the entertainment industry, but to every viewer who connected with his work. He wasn’t simply a pretty face or a moody antihero. He was an artist who brought passion, elegance, and honesty to his performances—whether as a demon, a doctor, or a detective.

As tributes pour in, one thing is clear: Julian McMahon will never be forgotten.