Julian McMahon, Star of 'Nip/Tuck' and 'Charmed,' Dies at 56
Published 4 July 2025
Highlights
- Australian actor Julian McMahon, known for roles in "Nip/Tuck" and "Charmed," has died at 56 from cancer.
- McMahon passed away in Clearwater, Florida, with his death confirmed by his wife, Kelly Paniagua.
- He gained fame as Dr. Christian Troy in "Nip/Tuck," earning a Golden Globe nomination.
- McMahon also portrayed Doctor Doom in the "Fantastic Four" films and starred in "FBI: Most Wanted."
- Born to former Australian Prime Minister Sir William McMahon, Julian began his career in the 1980s as a model.
-
Rewritten Article
Julian McMahon, Star of 'Nip/Tuck' and 'Charmed,' Dies at 56
Julian McMahon, the charismatic Australian actor celebrated for his roles in "Nip/Tuck" and "Charmed," has passed away at the age of 56. McMahon died in Clearwater, Florida, after a private battle with cancer, as confirmed by his wife, Kelly Paniagua, on Friday. "Julian loved life, his family, and his work. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible," Paniagua shared in a heartfelt statement.
A Stellar Career in Television and Film
Born in Sydney in 1968, Julian McMahon was the son of Sir William "Billy" McMahon, Australia's Prime Minister from 1971 to 1972. Julian's career began in the 1980s as a model before he transitioned to acting, securing a role in the popular Australian soap "Home and Away" in 1990. He appeared in 150 episodes, which paved the way for his move to the United States.
McMahon's breakthrough role came with the supernatural series "Charmed," where he played the half-human, half-demon assassin Cole Turner from 2000 to 2003. However, it was his portrayal of the suave and morally complex Dr. Christian Troy in the medical drama "Nip/Tuck" that brought him widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination. The show, which aired from 2003 to 2010, remains a defining part of his legacy.
From Supervillain to Special Agent
In addition to his television success, McMahon made a mark in Hollywood by playing the iconic Marvel supervillain Doctor Doom in the "Fantastic Four" films of 2005 and 2007. His versatility as an actor was further demonstrated in his role as Jess LaCroix, a special agent and team leader, in the CBS series "FBI: Most Wanted," where he starred for three seasons.
A Legacy of Joy and Laughter
McMahon's colleagues and friends have expressed their shock and sadness at his passing. Dylan Walsh, his co-star in "Nip/Tuck," reminisced about their time together, saying, "We rode this wave together and I loved him. My heart is with you. Rest in peace." Dick Wolf, producer of "FBI: Most Wanted," described McMahon's death as "shocking news," extending condolences to his family.
Julian McMahon's life was one of passion and dedication, leaving behind a legacy of joy and laughter that touched many.
-
Scenario Analysis
Julian McMahon's passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, where his unique blend of charm and talent was widely admired. As fans and colleagues mourn his loss, there may be renewed interest in his body of work, potentially leading to retrospectives or tributes that celebrate his contributions to television and film.
The impact of McMahon's death may also prompt discussions about cancer awareness and the importance of early diagnosis, given that his illness was not publicly known until his passing. As the industry reflects on his career, McMahon's legacy may inspire future actors to pursue diverse roles and bring joy to audiences worldwide, just as he did.
Julian McMahon, the charismatic Australian actor celebrated for his roles in "Nip/Tuck" and "Charmed," has passed away at the age of 56. McMahon died in Clearwater, Florida, after a private battle with cancer, as confirmed by his wife, Kelly Paniagua, on Friday. "Julian loved life, his family, and his work. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible," Paniagua shared in a heartfelt statement.
A Stellar Career in Television and Film
Born in Sydney in 1968, Julian McMahon was the son of Sir William "Billy" McMahon, Australia's Prime Minister from 1971 to 1972. Julian's career began in the 1980s as a model before he transitioned to acting, securing a role in the popular Australian soap "Home and Away" in 1990. He appeared in 150 episodes, which paved the way for his move to the United States.
McMahon's breakthrough role came with the supernatural series "Charmed," where he played the half-human, half-demon assassin Cole Turner from 2000 to 2003. However, it was his portrayal of the suave and morally complex Dr. Christian Troy in the medical drama "Nip/Tuck" that brought him widespread acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination. The show, which aired from 2003 to 2010, remains a defining part of his legacy.
From Supervillain to Special Agent
In addition to his television success, McMahon made a mark in Hollywood by playing the iconic Marvel supervillain Doctor Doom in the "Fantastic Four" films of 2005 and 2007. His versatility as an actor was further demonstrated in his role as Jess LaCroix, a special agent and team leader, in the CBS series "FBI: Most Wanted," where he starred for three seasons.
A Legacy of Joy and Laughter
McMahon's colleagues and friends have expressed their shock and sadness at his passing. Dylan Walsh, his co-star in "Nip/Tuck," reminisced about their time together, saying, "We rode this wave together and I loved him. My heart is with you. Rest in peace." Dick Wolf, producer of "FBI: Most Wanted," described McMahon's death as "shocking news," extending condolences to his family.
Julian McMahon's life was one of passion and dedication, leaving behind a legacy of joy and laughter that touched many.
What this might mean
Julian McMahon's passing leaves a void in the entertainment industry, where his unique blend of charm and talent was widely admired. As fans and colleagues mourn his loss, there may be renewed interest in his body of work, potentially leading to retrospectives or tributes that celebrate his contributions to television and film.
The impact of McMahon's death may also prompt discussions about cancer awareness and the importance of early diagnosis, given that his illness was not publicly known until his passing. As the industry reflects on his career, McMahon's legacy may inspire future actors to pursue diverse roles and bring joy to audiences worldwide, just as he did.
