Julian McMahon of Nip/Tuck Dies at 56
Julian McMahon of Nip/Tuck Dies at 56 following a battle with cancer. The Australian-born actor, best known for his roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and Fantastic Four, passed away in Clearwater, Florida. His wife, Kelly Paniagua, confirmed his death in a heartfelt statement shared with Deadline.
“Julian loved life. He loved his family, his friends, his work, and especially his fans,” Paniagua wrote. “His dream was to bring joy to as many lives as he could.”
McMahon passed away on Wednesday in Clearwater, Florida, where he had been receiving medical treatment.
From Charmed to International Fame
McMahon rose to prominence with his role as Cole Turner in the beloved supernatural drama Charmed. As a conflicted half-demon who fell in love with one of the Halliwell sisters, his performance resonated deeply with fans. The role not only earned him a devoted following but also introduced him to viewers across the globe.
Breakthrough Success in Nip/Tuck
He achieved greater fame when he starred as Dr. Christian Troy in the edgy FX medical drama Nip/Tuck. From 2003 to 2010, the show explored the lives of two Miami-based plastic surgeons, and McMahon’s portrayal of the confident yet tormented Christian earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
Reflecting on their time together, co-star Dylan Walsh offered a touching tribute:
“We rode this wave together and I loved him,” Walsh said. “Jules, you’d want me to say something funny — all those inside jokes. For all the years you had my back, and my god, we laughed. My heart is with you. Rest in peace.”
Big Screen Villainy in Fantastic Four
While McMahon found success on television, he also made a mark on the big screen. He portrayed the iconic villain Doctor Doom in Marvel’s Fantastic Four (2005) and its sequel, Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007). Critics praised his performance for blending menace with sophistication, offering a memorable take on the classic comic book character.
Leading Role in FBI: Most Wanted
Later in his career, McMahon led the cast of CBS’s hit drama FBI: Most Wanted, where he played Special Agent Jess LaCroix. He remained a central figure in the show for three seasons. Reacting to his death, series creator Dick Wolf called the news “shocking,” and remembered McMahon as a consummate professional.
“Julian brought dedication and emotional depth to every scene,” said Wolf. “His presence was a gift to the show and everyone who worked with him.”
A Legacy of Leadership — On and Off Screen
Beyond his acting career, McMahon came from a background of leadership and public service. He was the son of Sir William McMahon, who served as Prime Minister of Australia from 1971 to 1972. Interestingly, Julian portrayed a fictional Australian prime minister in one of his final roles in Netflix’s political series The Residence.
Personal Life and Family
Over the years, McMahon’s personal life also attracted attention. His first marriage was to singer and actress Dannii Minogue, the younger sister of pop star Kylie Minogue. Though the marriage was short-lived, it was widely covered in the media during the early 1990s.
Eventually, he found lasting love with Kelly Paniagua, who stayed by his side until his final days.
Celebrating His Life and Work
Julian McMahon’s influence stretched across television and film. Known for his versatility and charm, he left a legacy that continues to inspire actors and fans alike. His roles touched hearts and shaped stories that still resonate today.
Since the news of his death, tributes have poured in across social media. Fans are revisiting scenes from Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and Fantastic Four, sharing quotes, memories, and personal messages of admiration.
For those wishing to explore his work further, you can view his full filmography on IMDb.
External Links
- Julian McMahon IMDb Profile
- Deadline Obituary Article
- BBC News Report
- Fantastic Four – Marvel Studios
Rest in peace, Julian McMahon. Your artistry, integrity, and unforgettable performances will continue to inspire generations to come.