Australian actor rose to fame in “Home and Away” before finding international success in “Charmed,” “Nip/Tuck,” and “Fantastic Four”
SYDNEY – July 5, 2025 — Australian actor Julian McMahon, best known for his roles in Home and Away, Charmed, and Nip/Tuck, has died at the age of 56 following a private battle with cancer.
McMahon passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 2, at his home in Clearwater, Florida, his family confirmed in a public statement. The actor had kept his illness private, continuing to work in television and film throughout his treatment.
The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from around the world, with colleagues and fans remembering McMahon for his talent, professionalism, and charisma both on and off screen.
From Sydney to Hollywood
Julian Dana William McMahon was born on July 27, 1968, in Sydney. He was the son of former Australian Prime Minister Sir William McMahon and Lady Sonia McMahon. Despite his political lineage, McMahon pursued a career in the arts, beginning as a model before moving into television.
He first gained national recognition in 1990 when he joined the cast of the long-running Australian soap opera Home and Away as Ben Lucini, a popular character who appeared in more than 140 episodes.
His performance on the series catapulted him into the public eye and paved the way for an international acting career.
Rise to Global Fame
McMahon made the leap to the United States in the late 1990s and quickly found success in American television. He starred in the supernatural drama Charmed (2000–2005), portraying the conflicted demon-turned-lover Cole Turner, a role that earned him a global fanbase and critical attention.
In 2003, he was cast as Dr. Christian Troy in the groundbreaking FX medical drama Nip/Tuck. The show, which explored controversial themes around plastic surgery and identity, ran for seven seasons. McMahon’s performance as the egotistical yet emotionally complex surgeon earned him a Golden Globe nomination and solidified his reputation in Hollywood.
He also took on several film roles, most notably as Victor Von Doom (Doctor Doom) in Marvel’s Fantastic Four (2005) and its 2007 sequel. He appeared in a range of projects across genres, from thrillers like Premonition to procedural dramas and independent films.
Recent Work and Final Appearances
In more recent years, McMahon starred in the CBS crime series FBI: Most Wanted, leading the show as agent Jess LaCroix from 2020 to 2022. He left the series to pursue other creative opportunities, and in 2024, he co-starred alongside Nicolas Cage in the psychological drama The Surfer.
McMahon’s final television appearance was in Netflix’s The Residence, where he played the Australian Prime Minister in a fictionalized political drama.
Tributes From Co-Stars and Industry Peers
Following the announcement of his death, tributes have poured in from co-stars and colleagues.
Alyssa Milano, who starred opposite McMahon in Charmed, described him as “magic” in a post on social media. “He lit up every set he was on and brought heart and complexity to every role.”
Actor Nicolas Cage, who worked with McMahon on The Surfer, said in a statement: “Julian brought intelligence and grace to every role. He was a generous performer and an even better human being.”
Ioan Gruffudd, McMahon’s co-star in Fantastic Four, remembered him as “a consummate professional and dear friend.”
Personal Life
McMahon was previously married to singer and entertainer Dannii Minogue, with whom he shares a daughter, Madison, now 25. He later married Kelly McMahon, who was by his side at the time of his passing.
In keeping with his wishes, McMahon had kept his illness out of the public spotlight. Family members said he remained focused on his work and family until the very end.
A Lasting Legacy
Over a career spanning more than three decades, Julian McMahon became one of Australia’s most successful acting exports. He is remembered for his versatility, moving easily between daytime soaps, primetime dramas, science fiction, and major motion pictures.
From Summer Bay to Hollywood, Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of compelling performances, unforgettable characters, and a deep connection with his audience.
A public memorial service is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
Julian McMahon (1968–2025)
A proud Australian, a global star, and a performer whose light will long continue to shine.
Let me know if you’d like this formatted for a press release, TV anchor script, or social media summary.