Australian actor Julian McMahon, widely celebrated for his roles in television and film—including the hit series Nip/Tuck, Charmed, FBI: Most Wanted, and the early 2000s Fantastic Four movies—has passed away at the age of 56 on July 2, 2025 , following a private and courageous battle with cancer, according to a report.
Julian McMahon, whose career spanned more than three decades, was last seen publicly in March 2025 at the South by Southwest (SXSW) Film Festival, where he attended the premiere of what would become his final film, The Surfer. Attendees noted his grace and quiet strength, unaware that he had been privately facing a serious health battle.
Who was Julian McMahon
Julian McMahon was born in Sydney, Australia, into a family that was both politically and socially prominent. His mother, Sonia McMahon (née Hopkins), was a well-known heiress, socialite, and fashion icon of her time, while his father, William McMahon, served as a major figure in Australian politics, notably becoming Prime Minister of Australia in the early 1970s.
Julian’s entry into acting came with his television debut on the Australian daytime soap opera The Power, The Passion, where he portrayed the character Kane Edmonds. Though the show was short-lived, it marked the beginning of what would become a long and successful international career.
In the 1990s, McMahon relocated to the United States, where he would remain based for the rest of his life. Despite living and working primarily in the U.S., Julian always maintained a strong connection to his homeland. In interviews, he expressed this deep-rooted identity by saying, “I feel like I’m Australian on the inside and American on the outside or something.”
Tribute from Kelly McMahon wife of Julian McMahon
The heartbreaking news of Julian McMahon’s passing was shared by his wife, Kelly McMahon, in a heartfelt statement released to Deadline.
“With an open heart, I wish to share with the world that my beloved husband, Julian McMahon, died peacefully this week after a valiant effort to overcome cancer,” she wrote. “Julian loved life. He loved his family. He loved his friends. He loved his work, and he loved his fans. His deepest wish was to bring joy into as many lives as possible.”
Her words paint a picture of a man who was as devoted to those around him as he was to his craft—a person who sought to bring light into the lives of others, whether through his performances or in personal moments shared with loved ones.
She went on to ask for privacy and compassion as the family navigates this immense loss:
“We ask for support during this time to allow our family to grieve in privacy. And we wish for all of those to whom Julian brought joy, to continue to find joy in life. We are grateful for the memories.”
Julian McMahon was known not only for his magnetic screen presence but also for the warmth and sincerity he brought to every interaction. Whether portraying the complex and charismatic Dr. Christian Troy on Nip/Tuck, the villainous yet iconic Victor Von Doom in Fantastic Four, or the stoic and compassionate Jess LaCroix on FBI: Most Wanted, Julian McMahon delivered performances that captivated audiences and earned the respect of peers and fans alike.
In his personal life, he was known for his deep devotion to family, his kindness, and his ability to find joy in everyday moments. His passing marks a profound loss to the entertainment world and to all those who were touched by his talent, generosity, and spirit.
Julian McMahon’s legacy will live on through his work, his relationships, and the joy he brought to so many. He will be remembered not only as a gifted actor, but as a beloved husband, friend, and human being.
Alyssa Milano On Julian McMahon Death
“Julian McMahon was pure magic. That unforgettable smile, that infectious laugh, that immense talent—it all radiated from him with such effortless grace. But it wasn’t just his charisma that lit up a room. It was his kindness, his playfulness, and the rare, quiet depth of understanding he carried within him. He had that rare ability to make everyone around him feel both at ease and alive.
We shared so many years together on Charmed—countless scenes, storylines, and a world of unscripted moments in between. Through it all, Julian made me feel safe in the work, supported in the process. As an actor, I felt free around him. As a woman, I felt seen. He challenged me, teased me in the most loving ways, and lifted me up when I needed it most. We were opposites in many ways, and yet, there was always an unspoken understanding between us that just worked—on screen and off.
Julian McMahon wasn’t just my TV husband. He became a true friend. One of the rare kind—the kind who shows up, who checks in, who remembers the small things, who shares his world openly and honestly. He was the kind of friend who would tell you the truth, even if it was hard to hear, but he’d say it with such warmth, with such care, that you felt loved even in those tough moments.
My heart is with Kelly, Madison, and Iliana (Julian McMahon spouse)—his beautiful girls, his everything. He spoke of them with a light in his eyes that was unmistakable. Every story, every memory, every message was laced with adoration and pride. He was, at his core, a family man—devoted, loving, and fully present in the lives of those he held closest.
Losing Julian McMahon feels impossible. Unfathomable. Too soon. Too unfair. The world has lost a rare and radiant soul, and those of us who knew him are left with an ache that words can’t fully touch. Rest easy, my dear friend. I’ll carry your laugh with me always—echoing in the quiet moments, reminding me of the joy you brought to so many.
Forever Cole. Forever Julian.”
Julian McMahon net worth
Over the years, Julian McMahon built a successful and lucrative career, especially with his breakout role on the hit FX series Nip/Tuck. According to a 2007 report, the actor was earning $125,000 per episode at the height of the show’s popularity. Reportedly, Julian McMahon later sought to double his salary in negotiations for subsequent seasons, a reflection of both his growing stardom and the show’s critical acclaim.
Outside of acting, Julian McMahon also made savvy real estate investments. In 1997, after establishing himself in Hollywood, he purchased a home in the Hollywood Hills, notably close to the iconic HOLLYWOOD sign, for $712,000. Nearly two decades later, in 2015, he sold the property for $2.18 million, securing a profit of approximately $1.5 million, according to reports from Urban.com. His property portfolio included holdings in both the U.S. and Australia, demonstrating a long-term commitment to financial growth beyond the screen.
At the time of his death in 2025, Julian McMahon’s net worth was estimated to be around $16 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. While he is no longer with us, his artistic contributions, global appeal, and enduring charm have left a lasting impression.
Julian McMahon’s legacy lives on through his memorable performances, his devotion to craft, and the heartfelt admiration of fans across the world.