The news of the movie star’s death sparked an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from celebrities and fans alike.
Rose McGowan, his Charmed co‑star, wrote on social media: “Oh Julian you force of brilliance, wild talent and humor. For you, your family and loving fans all over the world, I pray comfort.”
Ioan Gruffudd, who played Reed Richards opposite McMahon’s Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four, shared: “There was always so much lightness and laughter working together… Every encounter with him was a joy.”
Nicolas Cage, his co‑star in The Surfer, praised McMahon’s talent: “I spent six weeks working with Julian, and he was the most talented of actors.
“Our scenes together on The Surfer were amongst my favorites I have ever participated in, and Julian is one of my favorite people.”
Holly Marie Combs, who starred alongside him in Charmed, said: “One of a kind is an understatement. Your zest for life and crazy sense of humor will be sorely missed.”
His wife Kelly Paniagua confirmed the actor passed away in Clearwater, Florida, on Wednesday, July 2.
Paniagua said in a statement: “With an open heart, I wish to share with the world that my beloved husband, Julian McMahon, died peacefully this week.
“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. 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.”
The actor was born in Sydney to former Australian Prime Minister Sir William ‘Billy’ McMahon.
He began his career as a model before turning to acting.
McMahon’s first notable screen role was as Ben Lucini in Home and Away.
He then transitioned to American television, appearing in daytime soaps such as Another World and the crime drama Profiler.
Later, McMahon charmed fans as the half‑demon Cole Turner on Charmed from 2000 to 2005.
Turner was Alyssa Milano’s character’s husband on the show.
Milano paid tribute to her co-star on social media, writing: “I’m heartbroken.
Julian McMahon was magic.
“That smile. That laugh. That talent. He walked into a room and lit it up – not just with charisma, but with kindness. With mischief. With soulful understanding.
“We spent years together on Charmed – years of scenes, stories, and so many in-between moments.
“Julian was more than my TV husband. He was a dear friend. The kind who checks in. The kind who remembers. The kind who shares. The kind who tells you the truth, even when it’s uncomfortable – but always with love.
“Losing him feels unreal. Too soon. Too unfair. Rest, my friend. I’ll carry your laugh with me. Forever Cole. Forever Julian.”
McMahon also gave a Golden Globe‑nominated performance as plastic surgeon Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck from 2003 to 2010.
The actor later brought the villainous Victor Von Doom to life in 2005’s Fantastic Four and its 2007 sequel.
He continued showcasing his range with roles in FBI: Most Wanted, Marvel’s Runaways, and Netflix’s The Residence.
McMahon’s final film, The Surfer opposite Nicolas Cage, premiered at SXSW in March 2025.
The actor was married three times: to Home and Away co-star Dannii Minogue, Baywatch star Brooke Burns, and actress Kelly Paniagua.
Paniagua confirmed the Fantastic Four actor died peacefully after a private, ‘valiant’ battle with cancer.
He faced the illness away from the public eye and passed surrounded by loved ones.
McMahon is survived by his wife and daughter Madison.
