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Julian McMahon, “Nip/Tuck” and “Charmed” star, dies at 56

Known for playing charming villains and complex leads, Julian McMahon died after a private cancer battle

Weekend Editor

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Hollywood heartthrob, villain and complex hero, Julian McMahon dies at 56. (Gregg DeGuire / WireImage / Getty Images)
Hollywood heartthrob, villain and complex hero, Julian McMahon dies at 56. (Gregg DeGuire / WireImage / Getty Images)

Julian McMahon, the Australian actor best known for roles on Nip/Tuck, Charmed and FBI: Most Wanted, died July 2 after a private battle with cancer. He was 56.

McMahon, the son of former Australian Prime Minister William McMahon, began his career as a model before landing television roles in Australia and later the U.S. He gained fame as Cole Turner, a charming demon on the hit supernatural series Charmed, before starring as the womanizing plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy on FX’s Nip/Tuck from 2003 to 2010.

He also played villain Victor Von Doom in the Fantastic Four films twenty years ago and more recently led CBS’ FBI: Most Wanted from 2020 until his exit in 2022. McMahon recently starred in Netflix’s The Residence and appeared opposite Nicolas Cage in The Surfer, which premiered at SXSW earlier this year.

He was married three times, including to singer Dannii Minogue and Baywatch actress Brooke Burns, with whom he shared one daughter, Madison. He was married to author Kelly Paniagua at the time of his death.

In a statement, Paniagua said McMahon “loved life, his family, his friends, his work, and his fans,” and wished to be remembered for bringing joy to others.

McMahon died at home in Clearwater, Florida, surrounded by loved ones.

By CK Smith

CK Smith is Salon's weekend editor.

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