Australian actor Julian McMahon, best known for his roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and Fantastic Four, has died at the age of 56. His cause of death has been confirmed as lung metastasis resulting from head and neck metastatic cancer, according to a report from the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office.
A Life and Career Remembered
Julian McMahon passed away peacefully in Clearwater, Florida, on July 2, 2025, following a private and courageous battle with cancer. His wife, Kelly Paniagua, released a heartfelt statement, describing him as a man who “loved life” and always sought to bring joy to others.
“Julian loved life. He loved his family, his friends, his work, and his fans. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible,” Paniagua shared.
Born in Australia, McMahon was the son of former Prime Minister William McMahon. He rose to international fame playing Dr. Christian Troy on Ryan Murphy’s acclaimed medical drama Nip/Tuck (2003–2010). He also portrayed Cole Turner in the hit supernatural series Charmed from 2000 to 2005.
Hollywood Success and Memorable Roles
McMahon gained further recognition in Hollywood as the iconic villain Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four (2005) and its sequel Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). His performance remains a fan favorite.
In recent years, he starred in FBI: Most Wanted, where he played Jess LaCroix, and in Netflix’s The Residence, which aired earlier in 2025 before its cancellation.
His final public appearance was on March 10, 2025, in Austin, Texas, for the premiere of The Surfer at the SXSW Film & TV Festival, where he appeared alongside Nicolas Cage.
Tributes from Family, Co-Stars, and Fans
Following McMahon’s death, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry.
The official Stan Instagram account posted:
“We’re heartbroken to hear of the passing of Julian McMahon. His extraordinary talent and presence left a lasting mark on everyone he worked with.”
Producer Robert Connolly praised McMahon’s performance in The Surfer, calling it a “triumph” and a “tour de force celebration” of his acting skills.
Actor Nicolas Cage, who co-starred with McMahon in The Surfer, shared his personal tribute:
“Julian was the most talented of actors… one of my favorite people. He was a kind and intelligent man.”
Personal Life and Legacy
Julian McMahon was married to Kelly Paniagua since 2014. He was previously married to Dannii Minogue and Brooke Burns, with whom he shares a daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, now 25.
His passing has left a lasting void in both the entertainment industry and the hearts of his fans around the world. McMahon’s legacy lives on through his unforgettable roles and the joy he brought to millions.
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