Julian McMahon, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in “Nip/Tuck” and “Fantastic Four,” has passed away at the age of 56 following a private battle with cancer.
Hollywood Mourns a Beloved Star
The entertainment world is reeling from the loss of Julian McMahon, who died on July 2 in Clearwater, Florida. His death comes just a day after the passing of Michael Madsen, marking another sad week for Hollywood.
McMahon’s wife, Kelly Paniagua, confirmed the devastating news in a heartfelt Facebook post. She shared that he passed away peacefully, asking for privacy as the family grieves their profound loss.
Tributes quickly began to pour in, with Warner Bros. Television, the studio behind his hit show “Nip/Tuck,” releasing a statement. They expressed sorrow over losing a friend and extended their condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and fans.
A Private Battle with Cancer
Speaking to Deadline, Kelly Paniagua revealed the cause of her husband’s death: a courageous but private battle with cancer. Her statement conveyed immense grief and love for the actor.
“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,” she stated. “Julian loved life. He loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans.”
Kelly also emphasized Julian’s desire to bring joy into as many lives as possible. She encouraged his fans to continue finding joy in their own lives, expressing gratitude for the cherished memories they shared.
A Career Defined by Memorable Roles
Julian McMahon carved out a significant career in both television and film. He was the son of former Australian Prime Minister William McMahon, and his talent quickly shone through.
He first gained widespread recognition for his role as the complex plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy in Ryan Murphy’s groundbreaking series “Nip/Tuck.” This role made him a household name and earned him critical acclaim.
Before that, he charmed audiences as the demonic Cole Turner, Alyssa Milano’s love interest, in the hit supernatural series “Charmed.” His early career also included roles in Australian soaps like “The Power, the Passion” and “Home and Away,” before making his film debut in “Wet and Wild Summer.”
Later in his career, McMahon starred as Special Agent Jess LaCroix in “FBI: Most Wanted,” leading a task force from 2020 to 2022. He left the show on good terms, stating his pride in the work and the development of his character.
Industry Tributes and Personal Life
Producer Dick Wolf, the mastermind behind the “FBI” franchise, shared his shock and sadness. “All of us at Wolf Entertainment are deeply saddened by Julian’s passing, and our condolences go out to his entire family,” Wolf told Variety.
McMahon’s most recent project was Netflix’s “The Residence,” which was unfortunately canceled after one season.
In his personal life, Julian McMahon was married three times. He was previously wed to Australian singer Dannii Minogue and “Baywatch” star Brooke Burns, with whom he shared a 25-year-old daughter, Elizabeth. He married Kelly Paniagua in 2014.
- Julian McMahon passed away at 56.
- His wife, Kelly Paniagua, confirmed he died from cancer.
- He was best known for his roles in “Nip/Tuck,” “Charmed,” and “FBI: Most Wanted.”
- McMahon was the son of former Australian Prime Minister William McMahon.
Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of compelling performances and will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans worldwide.
