Julian McMahon Dies at 56: Career, Net Worth & Iconic Roles

Julian McMahon, the Australian actor best known for his roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and the Fantastic Four films, has died at the age of 56. His death was confirmed by his wife, Kelly Paniagua, who shared that he passed away peacefully at their home in Clearwater, Florida, after a quiet and private battle with cancer.

McMahon's passing has left fans across the world shocked and saddened. His wife described him as someone who “loved life and appreciated every moment,” adding that he deeply cared for his family, friends, fans, and work.

From Sydney to Hollywood: Julian McMahon’s Journey to Stardom

Born in Sydney in 1968, Julian McMahon came from a prominent Australian family. His father, Sir William McMahon, served as the Prime Minister of Australia in the early 1970s. But Julian chose a different path, first stepping into the spotlight as a fashion model before moving into acting.

He got his start on the Australian soap opera Home and Away before heading to the U.S., where he found fame playing Cole Turner, a fan-favorite demon-turned-lover in the supernatural series Charmed.

But it was his performance as the slick and complex plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy on the FX drama Nip/Tuck that truly made him a household name. The show, which ran from 2003 to 2010, earned critical acclaim and earned McMahon a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor.

His film career included a memorable turn as the villain Doctor Doom in the Fantastic Four movies released in 2005 and 2007. In more recent years, he played Jess LaCroix in CBS’s FBI: Most Wanted and starred in the 2024 thriller The Surfer.

Just months before his passing, McMahon appeared in Netflix’s political drama The Residence, portraying Australia’s prime minister—a role that echoed his own father’s real-life position.

McMahon’s Private Life, Legacy, and Net Worth Revealed

Despite being in the public eye for much of his life, McMahon kept his personal struggles private. According to his family, he had been quietly battling cancer and chose to keep the diagnosis away from public attention.

Julian McMahon is survived by his wife, Kelly, and daughter, Madison, from his previous marriage to actress Brooke Burns.

In addition to his successful acting career, McMahon was also a savvy investor. Reports suggest that his net worth at the time of his death was around $16 million. He earned significant income from his television work, with peak episode earnings from Nip/Tuck reportedly between $125,000 and $155,000.

He also made smart real estate moves over the years

• Sold a Hollywood Hills home for over $2 million in 2015.
• Sold a Malibu home for $3.55 million in 2017.
• Alongside his siblings, inherited family property in Australia, including their late parents' waterfront home.

Fans and fellow actors have paid tribute to McMahon’s legacy, remembering him not just as a talented performer, but as someone who brought intensity and charm to every role. His characters often balanced confidence with vulnerability — whether playing a flawed surgeon, a supernatural villain, or a federal agent.

Julian McMahon’s contribution to television and film spanned more than three decades. His passing marks the end of a career filled with memorable performances that will be remembered by audiences for years to come.

Source(Image / Thumbnail): theguardian