Hollywood actor Julian McMahon dies at 56, tributes pour in for ‘Fantastic Four’ and ‘Nip/Tuck’ star

Stars took to social media to share tributes and express their grief over the late actor

Last updated: July 06, 2025 | 09:35

2 MIN READ

Born in Sydney in 1968, McMahon began his career as a model before transitioning into acting, first on Australian television and later in the US.

Paris/Washington: Australian actor Julian McMahon, best known for his roles in Charmed, Nip/Tuck, and Fantastic Four, has passed away in the United States at the age of 56 after a private battle with cancer.

His wife, Kelly McMahon, confirmed the news in a statement on Friday, saying the actor “died peacefully this week after a valiant effort to overcome cancer.” The announcement was first shared with Deadline.

From model to Hollywood icon

Born in Sydney in 1968, McMahon began his career as a model before transitioning into acting, first on Australian television and later in the U.S.

He rose to international fame as Cole Turner, the half-demon love interest in the fantasy drama Charmed (2000–2005), earning a cult following for his portrayal. He later received an Emmy nomination for his performance as Dr. Christian Troy, a charming but morally complex plastic surgeon, in Nip/Tuck (2003–2010).

McMahon also played the iconic Marvel villain Doctor Doom in the Fantastic Four films and most recently starred alongside Nicolas Cage in The Surfer, presented at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival.

Final role and legacy

His final screen appearance was in Netflix's political drama The Residence (2025), where he portrayed the Australian Prime Minister. He also featured in FBI: Most Wanted, produced by Dick Wolf, earning praise for his commanding performances.

He was the son of former Australian Prime Minister Sir William McMahon and is survived by his wife Kelly and daughter Madison.

Tributes pour in

Tributes have poured in across the entertainment world:

Alyssa Milano, McMahon's Charmed co-star, wrote: “Losing him feels unreal. Too soon. Too unfair. Rest, my friend. I'll carry your laugh with me.”
Rose McGowan remembered him as a "force of brilliance, wild talent and humour."
Holly Marie Combs shared behind-the-scenes clips, calling him “my favourite pain in the as ever… One of a kind is an understatement.”*
Brian Krause, also from Charmed, called it a “sad day for our Charmed family.”
'He was the energy of Nip/Tuck': Co-stars remember McMahon
Kelly Carlson, who played Kimber on Nip/Tuck, said: “He was the energy, the charisma, the humour, the looks and everything of Nip/Tuck.”
Dylan Walsh, his co-lead on the show, told Deadline: “I’m stunned. We rode this wave together, and I loved him. My heart goes out to Kelly and Maddy.”

Colleagues from the big screen pay respects

Nicolas Cage, who recently worked with McMahon in The Surfer, said:
“He was the most talented of actors. Our scenes together were among my favourites.”
Ioan Gruffudd, who played Mister Fantastic opposite McMahon’s Doctor Doom, said: “It was an honour to be Dr Richards to his Dr Doom.”
Michael Chiklis, also from the Fantastic Four films, posted: “Life is so precious and fragile. My condolences to his family. RIP Jules.”
Dick Wolf, executive producer of FBI: Most Wanted, called it “shocking news” and extended condolences on behalf of the Wolf Entertainment team.

Remembering a versatile talent

Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of compelling performances across genres—ranging from supernatural drama and medical thrillers to superhero action and political mystery. A Golden Globe-nominated actor, his ability to bring charm, menace, and vulnerability to the screen made him one of Australia’s most successful Hollywood exports.