Tributes pour in for the charismatic Australian actor known for his roles in ‘Charmed’, ‘Nip/Tuck’, and ‘Fantastic Four’ after his death was confirmed by wife Kelly
Washington [US], July 6 – Beloved Australian actor Julian McMahon, best known for his iconic roles in Charmed, Nip/Tuck, and the Fantastic Four films, has died at the age of 56. The news of Julian McMahon’s death was confirmed by his wife, Kelly, who revealed that the actor passed away peacefully this week following a private battle with cancer.
In a heartfelt statement released Friday, Kelly McMahon shared, “Julian died peacefully this week after a valiant effort to overcome cancer.” She described him as a man who “deeply loved life, his work, and the people around him.” She added that his “deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible,” and requested privacy for the family as they grieve the loss.
The entertainment industry responded with an outpouring of tributes, celebrating McMahon’s legacy as both a gifted actor and a warm, witty human being.
Nicolas Cage, who starred with McMahon in The Surfer, told Deadline, “Such deeply saddening news. I spent six weeks working with Julian, and he was the most talented of actors. Our scenes together were among my favourites I’ve ever participated in. Julian is one of my favourite people.”
From the magical world of Charmed, where McMahon famously played the fan-favourite character Cole Turner, former co-stars remembered him with affection and nostalgia.
Rose McGowan posted on Instagram, “Oh Julian, you force of brilliance, wild talent, and humour. For you, your family and loving fans all over the world, I pray comfort.”
Holly Marie Combs fondly remembered him as “my favourite pain in the as ever,”* adding, “One of a kind is an understatement. Your unyielding zest for life and crazy-making sense of humour will be sorely missed.”
Brian Krause, also from the Charmed cast, wrote, “Sad day for our Charmed family! Julian was one of the funniest, devilishly handsome, and kind souls. Prayers to his family and close friends.”
From Nip/Tuck, where McMahon starred as the unforgettable Dr. Christian Troy, tributes were equally emotional.
Kelly Carlson, who played opposite him for several years, said in a video tribute, “Jules, thanks for a great six, seven years on Nip/Tuck together. We had so much fun… He was the energy, the charisma, the humour, the looks and everything of Nip/Tuck. I hope he had a peaceful journey.”
Dylan Walsh, his long-time co-star, told Deadline, “I’m stunned. We rode this wave together, and I loved him. My heart goes out to Kelly and Maddy. All those years you had my back, and my god, we laughed.”
From the Marvel universe, Ioan Gruffudd, who played Mister Fantastic to McMahon’s Doctor Doom, remarked, “It was an honour to be Dr. Richards to his Dr. Doom. My heart goes out to his wife and family.”
Michael Chiklis, another Fantastic Four co-star, echoed the sentiment: “Life is so precious and fragile. My condolences to his family. RIP Jules.”
Dick Wolf, executive producer of the FBI franchise, in which McMahon recently starred in FBI: Most Wanted, described the news as “shocking” and extended sympathies on behalf of the entire team at Wolf Entertainment.
A Golden Globe-nominated actor, McMahon had a career that spanned television, film, and modelling. The son of former Australian Prime Minister Sir William McMahon, he initially gained fame on Home and Away before achieving international success.
His recent projects included the critically noted The Surfer, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, and his recurring role in FBI: Most Wanted, where he played Special Agent Jess LaCroix.
Julian McMahon is survived by his wife, Kelly, and daughter, Madison. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of fans and colleagues alike.