Julian McMahon was a renowned Australian-American actor, born on July 27, 1968, in Sydney, Australia. He was the only son of Sir William McMahon, a former Prime Minister of Australia, and Lady Sonia McMahon, a fashion icon and philanthropist. McMahon began his career as a model before transitioning into acting in the late 1980s. He gained early recognition in Australia with roles in soap operas like Home and Away and The Power, The Passion. His international breakthrough came with the U.S. soap opera Another World in 1993.
McMahon’s career flourished with significant roles in television and film. He portrayed Cole Turner in Charmed, Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck—a role that earned him a Golden Globe nomination—and the villain Victor Von Doom in the Fantastic Four films. He also starred in Profiler, Runaways, and FBI: Most Wanted. His recent work included appearances in The Surfer and Netflix’s The Residence.
On July 2, 2025, McMahon passed away at the age of 56 in Clearwater, Florida, after a private battle with cancer. His wife, Kelly McMahon, confirmed his death, describing his passing as peaceful and expressing gratitude for his love of life, family, friends, and fans . Tributes from colleagues and fans highlighted his charisma, kindness, and dedication to his craft .
Early Life and Family Background
Birth and Parentage
Julian Dana William McMahon was born on July 27, 1968, in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. He was the only son of Sir William McMahon, the 20th Prime Minister of Australia, and Lady Sonia McMahon (née Hopkins), a fashion icon and philanthropist. His father served as Prime Minister from 1971 to 1972, and his mother was known for her socialite status and contributions to various charitable causes.
Siblings and Upbringing
McMahon had two sisters: Melinda, his older sister, and Deborah, his younger sister. Growing up in a politically influential family, he was exposed to public life from an early age. Despite the prominence of his parents, McMahon pursued a career in the arts, diverging from the political legacy of his father.
Education and Early Career
Academic Pursuits
McMahon attended Sydney Grammar School, a prestigious private boys’ school in Sydney. He later enrolled at the University of Sydney to study law and at the University of Wollongong to study economics. However, he found little interest in academia and eventually dropped out to pursue a career in modeling and acting.
Modeling Career
Before entering acting, McMahon worked as a model in various fashion capitals, including Milan, London, Paris, and New York City. His modeling career helped him gain exposure and opened doors to acting opportunities. He appeared in several commercials, including a notable campaign for Levi’s in Australia.
Acting Career
Breakthrough in Australian Television
McMahon’s acting debut came in 1989 with a role in the Australian soap opera The Power, The Passion. He then joined the cast of Home and Away in 1990, portraying Benito “Ben” Lucini. His performance in the series earned him recognition and laid the foundation for his future in acting.
Transition to American Television
In the early 1990s, McMahon moved to the United States, where he faced challenges obtaining a work permit. Despite these obstacles, he secured a role in the American soap opera Another World in 1993, portraying Ian Rain. This role marked his entry into the American television industry.
Notable Roles
- Profiler (1996–2000): McMahon starred as Detective John Grant in this crime drama series, which garnered him significant attention in the U.S. television landscape.
- Charmed (2000–2005): He portrayed Cole Turner, a demon-turned-human, in this popular supernatural drama series.
- Nip/Tuck (2003–2010): McMahon played Dr. Christian Troy, a charismatic and morally complex plastic surgeon, in this critically acclaimed medical drama. His performance earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
- Fantastic Four (2005) and Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer (2007): He portrayed Victor Von Doom / Doctor Doom, the main antagonist, in these Marvel superhero films.
- FBI: Most Wanted (2020–2022): McMahon starred as Supervisory Special Agent Jess LaCroix in this crime drama series.
Recent Projects
In his later years, McMahon continued to take on diverse roles. He appeared in the Netflix series Runaways (2017–2018) and the Stan Original Film The Surfer (2024), co-starring Nicolas Cage. His final role was in the Netflix series The Residence, where he portrayed Australian Prime Minister Stephen Roos.
Awards and Nominations
- Golden Globe Award (2004): Nominated for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his role in Nip/Tuck.
- Satellite Award (2003): Nominated for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama for his role in Nip/Tuck.
- Teen Choice Award (2007): Nominated for Choice Movie Villain for his role as Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer.
Personal Life
Marriages and Family
McMahon was married three times.
Dannii Minogue (1994–1995): McMahon married singer and actress Dannii Minogue after meeting on the set of Home and Away. Their marriage lasted a year and a half.
Brooke Burns (1999–2001): McMahon married actress and model Brooke Burns, with whom he has a daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, born in 2000. They divorced in 2001.
Kelly Paniagua (2014–2025): McMahon married model and author Kelly Paniagua in 2014. They remained married until his passing in 2025.
Personal Traits and Legacy
Known for his charm and charisma, McMahon was described by colleagues and friends as magnetic, warm, and kind. Actress Rose McGowan, who co-starred with him on Charmed, lauded his brilliance and humor, offering prayers for his family and fans.
Net Worth
At the time of his death, McMahon’s net worth was estimated at $16 million. He earned significantly from his acting career, with reports indicating he earned between $125,000 to $155,000 per episode during the peak of Nip/Tuck. Additionally, McMahon made strategic investments in real estate, including a property in Los Angeles’ Hollywood Hills, which he sold for a substantial profit.
Illness and Death
Julian McMahon passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 56, following a private battle with cancer. His wife, Kelly Paniagua, confirmed his death in a statement, describing his passing as peaceful and expressing gratitude for his love of life, family, friends, and fans. She requested privacy for the family during this time of mourning.
Conclusion
Julian McMahon’s career spanned over three decades, during which he became a household name through his memorable roles in television and film. His portrayal of complex characters and his dedication to his craft earned him recognition and admiration from audiences and peers alike. Beyond his professional achievements, McMahon’s personal life reflected his values of family, love, and kindness. His legacy continues to inspire and will be remembered by those who had the privilege of witnessing his work and knowing him personally.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Julian McMahon’s most famous role?
McMahon was best known for his role as Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck, which earned him a Golden Globe nomination.
Who were Julian McMahon’s parents?
His father was Sir William McMahon, the 20th Prime Minister of Australia, and his mother was Lady Sonia McMahon, a fashion icon and philanthropist.
How many times was Julian McMahon married?
McMahon was married three times: to Dannii Minogue, Brooke Burns, and Kelly Paniagua.
Did Julian McMahon have any children?
Yes, he had one daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, with his second wife, Brooke Burns.
What was Julian McMahon’s net worth?
At the time of his death, McMahon’s net worth was estimated at $16 million.
Where did Julian McMahon pass away?
He passed away in Clearwater, Florida, USA.
What was Julian McMahon’s last film role?
His final film role was in the Stan Original Film The Surfer, co-starring Nicolas Cage.
