Julian McMahon, the Australian actor known for his unforgettable roles in Nip/Tuck, Charmed, and Fantastic Four, has sadly passed away at the age of 56.
McMahon died on Wednesday, July 2, in Clearwater, Florida, after a private battle with cancer. His wife, Kelly McMahon, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement.
“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,” Kelly said in a statement shared with Deadline.
“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.”
Following the announcement of his death, tributes from co-stars and friends flooded in, celebrating Julian’s life, humor, and heart.
Dylan Walsh, his co-lead in Nip/Tuck, shared an emotional message.
“I’m stunned. We rode this wave together and I loved him. My heart goes out to Kelly and Maddy. Jules! I know you’d want me to say something to make you smile — all the inside jokes. All those years you had my back, and my god, we laughed. My heart is with you. Rest in peace.”
Kelly Carlson, who played McMahon’s on-screen love interest in the show, also reflected on their time together.
“Oh, my gosh, I’m completely shocked and saddened… It’s tough to process a little bit because he played my on-and-off husband for several years, [he] was a good friend and my acting partner. Jules, thank you for a great seven years on Nip/Tuck together and we had so much fun. I hope he had a peaceful journey. I wish him a peaceful journey and I know he had a full, great life so that’s a good thing. Alright Jules, we’ll see you on the other side.”
From his time on Charmed, Julian’s former castmates also shared moving memories.
Holly Marie Combs wrote:
“One of a kind is an understatement. Your unyielding zest for life and crazy making sense of humor will be sorely missed. The joy and laughter you were the direct cause of will always be remembered. I hope you find our lady friend and dance in those rose petals. 🌹”
Rose McGowan added:
“Oh Julian you force of brilliance, wild talent and humour. For you, your family and loving fans all over the world, I pray comfort.”
Alyssa Milano offered a deeply personal tribute:
“I’m heartbroken. Julian McMahon was magic. That smile. That laugh. That talent. That presence. He walked into a room and lit it up—not just with charisma, but with kindness. With mischief. With soulful understanding… Julian was more than my TV husband. He was a dear friend… Losing him feels unreal. Too soon. Too unfair. Rest, my friend. I’ll carry your laugh with me. Forever Cole. Forever Julian.”
His Fantastic Four co-star Ioan Gruffudd shared:
“This is terribly sad news about Julian. Even though we played each other’s nemeses, there was always so much lightness and laughter working together. Every encounter with him was a joy. It was an honor to be Dr. Richards to his Dr. Doom. My heart goes out to his wife and family. God speed Julian.”
Nicolas Cage, who worked with McMahon on The Surfer, also paid tribute:
“Such deeply saddening news. 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. He was a kind and intelligent man. My love to his family.”
Julian’s ex-wife Brooke Burns, with whom he shared a daughter, Madison, 25, posted a photo of Julian with their daughter, writing simply: “Rest in Peace 💔.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Julian McMahon’s family, friends, and fans. He leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and a lifetime of love and laughter.
