Julian McMahon, the beloved American-Australian actor best known for his standout roles in Charmed, Nip/Tuck, and FBI: Most Wanted, has passed away at the age of 56. His death, confirmed by his wife Kelly Paniagua, comes after a quiet battle with cancer that had not been publicly disclosed until now.
McMahon died peacefully on Wednesday in Clearwater, Florida. In a heartfelt statement released Friday, Paniagua 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 loved life. He loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible.”
She also requested privacy as the family grieves and encouraged fans to remember him by continuing to find joy in life.
A Career Defined by Charisma and Versatility
Born in Sydney in 1968, Julian McMahon was the son of former Australian Prime Minister Sir William “Billy” McMahon. He began his career as a fashion model before landing his first major acting role on the Australian soap opera Home and Away, where he appeared in 150 episodes.
After making his film debut in the 1992 comedy Exchange Lifeguards, McMahon transitioned to U.S. television, starring in Another World, Profiler, and a guest role in Will & Grace.
His breakout role came as Cole Turner, the charming demon in Charmed (2000–2003, with a return in 2005). However, it was his portrayal of the complex Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck (2003–2010) that catapulted him to global fame and earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
McMahon also made his mark in Hollywood blockbusters, playing the villainous Victor Von Doom (Doctor Doom) in Fantastic Four (2005) and its sequel, as well as voicing the character in the video game adaptation.
A Legacy of Impactful Roles
More recently, McMahon led the CBS series FBI: Most Wanted as agent Jess LaCroix. His departure from the show after three seasons left fans surprised, and series creator Dick Wolf called the news of his passing “shocking,” offering condolences to McMahon’s family.
He was also working on several projects before his death, including Netflix’s The Residence, The Surfer alongside Nicolas Cage, and The Supremes at Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat, in which he starred as the romantic lead.
Australian director Stephan Elliott, a longtime friend and collaborator, recalled McMahon as a “wild child” whose passion and humor lit up every set:
“He went to town and left us crying with laughter after every take. He never had so much fun on a film.”
Family and Personal Life
Julian McMahon was married three times—first to pop singer Dannii Minogue in 1994, and later to actress Brooke Burns, with whom he had a daughter. He married his third wife, Kelly Paniagua, in 2014.
His legacy is one of bold choices, unforgettable performances, and an unwavering desire to bring joy to audiences around the world. He will be deeply missed.