Julian McMahon, the Australian actor renowned for his captivating roles in television and film, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, following a private battle with cancer. He was 56 years old. The news, confirmed by his wife, Kelly Paniagua McMahon, has sent waves of sorrow through the entertainment world and fans worldwide, who remember him for his magnetic performances and enduring charm.
Born in Sydney on July 27, 1968, Julian was the son of Sir William "Billy" McMahon, who served as Prime Minister of Australia from 1971 to 1972. Julian’s early life was steeped in the public eye, yet he forged his own path away from politics and into the arts. Starting his career as a model in the 1980s, he soon transitioned into acting, initially appearing in Australian television soaps such as "Home and Away" between 1990 and 1991. His feature film debut came with the 1992 comedy Exchange Lifeguards (known as Wet and Wild Summer! in the United States), where he starred opposite Elliott Gould.
McMahon’s move to the United States marked the beginning of a prolific television career. He appeared in NBC’s "Another World" in 1993 and later secured roles in series like "Profiler" and "Will & Grace." However, it was his portrayal of Cole Turner in the supernatural drama "Charmed" that truly cemented his status as a fan favorite. Airing from 1998 to 2006, "Charmed" featured McMahon in over 40 episodes as the complex, brooding half-demon who captured the heart of Alyssa Milano’s character, Phoebe Halliwell.
Fans of the show still fondly recall the tragic love story between Cole and Phoebe, a narrative that added depth and nuance to the series. Holly Marie Combs, who played Piper Halliwell on "Charmed," shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram shortly after McMahon’s death was announced. Posting a collage of moments from their years working together, Combs described Julian as "one of a kind" and remembered his "unyielding zest for life and crazy making sense of humor." She poignantly referenced their late co-star Shannen Doherty, writing, "I hope you find our lady friend and dance in those rose petals," acknowledging the shared loss of Doherty, who died after a battle with cancer in July 2024.
Following "Charmed," McMahon took on the role of Dr. Christian Troy in Ryan Murphy’s provocative medical drama "Nip/Tuck," which aired from 2003 to 2010. His portrayal of the morally complex plastic surgeon earned him a Golden Globe nomination and showcased his ability to navigate layered, challenging characters. Beyond television, McMahon expanded his range by stepping into the shoes of Marvel’s iconic villain Doctor Doom in the 2005 "Fantastic Four" film and its 2007 sequel, further broadening his fanbase.
In more recent years, McMahon led the CBS series "FBI: Most Wanted" as Jess LaCroix, a role he held for three seasons before departing in 2022. His final acting credit was the Netflix comedy-mystery "The Residence," where he portrayed an Australian prime minister—a role that resonated with his personal history, given his father’s political legacy.
Throughout his career, McMahon was celebrated not only for his striking looks and commanding screen presence but also for his warmth and dedication off-screen. His wife Kelly shared a moving statement with Deadline, saying, "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 requested privacy for their family during this difficult time, emphasizing the need to grieve away from public scrutiny.
Tributes poured in from fans and colleagues alike. Dick Wolf, producer of "FBI: Most Wanted," expressed his condolences, calling McMahon’s passing "shocking news" and extending sympathies to his family. Australian filmmaker Stephan Elliott, who knew McMahon from school and cast him in his film Swinging Safari, recalled him as a "wild child" with a fearless spirit and infectious energy that left those around him laughing and inspired.
McMahon’s personal life was as eventful as his career. He was married three times: first to Australian singer Dannii Minogue in 1994, whom he met on the set of "Home and Away," then to actress Brooke Burns in 1999, with whom he had a daughter, and finally to Kelly Paniagua in 2014. Despite his international career, McMahon often spoke proudly of his Australian roots, once remarking, "I feel like I'm Australian on the inside and American on the outside or something. I would never want to leave it behind either. I love Australians, Australianisms, I love my part of being Australian. I love where I grew up and how I grew up and, you know, I wouldn't change it for the world."
His impact on television and film is undeniable. From the supernatural allure of "Charmed" to the intense, often dark world of "Nip/Tuck," and the superhero spectacle of "Fantastic Four," McMahon's versatility and charisma brought a unique depth to every role. Fans remember him not just as an actor but as a creator of memorable moments and emotions that transcended the screen.
As the entertainment community mourns, McMahon’s legacy endures through the characters he brought to life and the joy he shared with audiences worldwide. His performances continue to inspire new generations, and his memory is cherished by those who knew him personally and professionally.
In a world that often feels transient, Julian McMahon’s work remains a lasting testament to his talent and spirit. The curtain may have fallen on his life, but the echoes of his roles and the affection of his fans will keep his story alive for years to come.
