By Staff Reporter
July 11, 2025

The entertainment world continues to mourn the loss of Australian actor Julian McMahon, known for his captivating roles in Charmed, Nip/Tuck, and FBI: Most Wanted. Official documents recently obtained by People Magazine from the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office in Florida have revealed the cause of the 56-year-old actor’s passing, bringing closure to fans and loved ones.

According to the Cremation Approval Summary Report, McMahon succumbed to lung metastasis stemming from head and neck metastatic cancer. The medical examiner classified the manner of death as natural. The report also confirmed that the actor’s remains were cremated following his passing.

McMahon’s battle with cancer was not widely publicized, and his death came as a shock to many. His career, spanning over three decades, left an indelible mark on television and film. From his breakout role as Cole Turner in Charmed to his compelling portrayal of Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck, McMahon was celebrated for his charisma and versatility. More recently, he won praise for his role as Jess LaCroix in FBI: Most Wanted.

Tributes have poured in across social media, with fans and colleagues reflecting on his talent and warmth. “Julian was a true professional and a kind soul,” said a former co-star from Nip/Tuck. “His presence on set was magnetic, and he’ll be deeply missed.”

The actor is survived by his daughter, Madison, from his marriage to Brooke Burns, and his siblings. No public memorial service has been announced at this time, in keeping with the family’s request for privacy.

As the industry reflects on McMahon’s legacy, his work continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring his memory endures through the characters he brought to life.

Julian McMahon Biography

Full Name: Julian Dana William McMahon
Born: July 27, 1968, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
Died: 2025 (exact date not specified in available information), Pinellas County, Florida, USA
Cause of Death: Lung metastasis due to head and neck metastatic cancer (per Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office, 2025)
Nationality: Australian
Occupation: Actor, Model

Early Life and Education

Julian McMahon was born in Sydney, Australia, to Sir William McMahon, a former Australian Prime Minister (1971–1972), and Lady Sonia McMahon. He was the second of three children, with two sisters, Melinda and Deborah. Growing up in a prominent family, McMahon was exposed to public life early on but gravitated toward the arts rather than politics. He attended Sydney Grammar School and briefly studied law at the University of Sydney before pursuing a career in modeling and acting.

Career

McMahon’s career began in the 1980s with modeling gigs in cities like Milan, New York, and Paris, appearing in commercials for brands like Levi’s. His early acting roles were in Australian television, including the soap opera Home and Away (1989–1991), where he played Ben Lucini, earning him a fan base in Australia.

Breakthrough in Hollywood

McMahon transitioned to American television in the 1990s, landing a role as Ian Rain in the daytime soap Another World (1993). His major breakthrough came with the role of Cole Turner, a half-demon with a complex redemption arc, in the fantasy series Charmed (2000–2003, 2005). His chemistry with co-stars Alyssa Milano, Holly Marie Combs, and Shannen Doherty made him a standout.

Major Roles

• Nip/Tuck (2003–2010): McMahon’s portrayal of Dr. Christian Troy, a charismatic but morally conflicted plastic surgeon, earned critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination. The FX series, known for its provocative themes, solidified his status as a leading man.
• *Fantastic Four (2005, 2007): He played Victor Von Doom/Doctor Doom in the Fantastic Four films, showcasing his ability to tackle villainous roles in big-budget productions.
• *FBI: Most Wanted (2020–2022): As Jess LaCroix, a seasoned FBI agent leading a task force, McMahon delivered a grounded performance, becoming a fan favorite in the FBI franchise.

Other notable projects include films like Premonition (2007) alongside Sandra Bullock and guest appearances in series such as Profiler (1996–1998) and Runaways (2017–2019). His versatility allowed him to navigate genres from drama to superhero films with ease.

Personal Life

McMahon was married three times:

• Dannii Minogue (1994–1995): A brief marriage to the Australian singer and actress.
• Brooke Burns (1999–2001): The couple had one daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, born in 2000.
• Kelly Paniagua (2014–2025): McMahon married Paniagua, his longtime partner, in 2014, and they remained together until his passing.

Known for his private nature, McMahon kept his personal life largely out of the spotlight, focusing public attention on his work. He was an avid surfer and fitness enthusiast, often spending time in Australia and the U.S.

Death and Legacy

Julian McMahon passed away in 2025 in Florida, succumbing to lung metastasis caused by head and neck metastatic cancer, as confirmed by the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office. His death was ruled natural, and his remains were cremated. The news shocked fans, as his illness had not been publicly disclosed.

McMahon’s legacy endures through his memorable performances, particularly in Charmed and Nip/Tuck, which continue to resonate with audiences. Tributes from colleagues highlight his professionalism, charm, and generosity on set. He is survived by his daughter, Madison, his wife, Kelly, and his sisters.

Selected Filmography

• Home and Away (1989–1991) – Ben Lucini
• Another World (1993) – Ian Rain
• Profiler (1996–1998) – John Grant
• Charmed (2000–2003, 2005) – Cole Turner
• Nip/Tuck (2003–2010) – Dr. Christian Troy
• Fantastic Four (2005) – Victor Von Doom
• Premonition (2007) – Jim Hanson
• FBI: Most Wanted (2020–2022) – Jess LaCroix

Awards and Nominations

• Golden Globe Nomination: Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for Nip/Tuck (2005)
• Australian Logie Awards: Nominated for his work in Home and Away

Julian McMahon’s contributions to television and film, marked by his magnetic presence and nuanced performances, ensure his place as a beloved figure in entertainment history.