Julian McMahon (Julian Dana William McMahon) was born on July 27, 1968, in Sydney, Australia, into a family already familiar with the public eye. His father, Sir William McMahon, served as the Prime Minister of Australia from 1971 to 1972, and his mother, Lady Sonia McMahon, was a prominent socialite. Growing up in such a distinguished household, Julian was exposed to both the privileges and pressures of public life from an early age.
Despite initially enrolling at the University of Wollongong, Julian soon found his true calling elsewhere. He left university to pursue modeling, which quickly led to international assignments in fashion capitals like Milan, New York, and Paris. His striking looks and charisma soon caught the attention of casting directors, and he landed his first major acting role as Ben Lucini in the Australian soap opera Home and Away in 1989. This role not only made him a household name in Australia but also set the stage for his international career.
Julian McMahon’s move to the United States in the mid-1990s marked the beginning of a prolific period in his career. He became widely recognized for his roles as Cole Turner in Charmed, Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck, and the villainous Doctor Doom in the Fantastic Four films. His performances earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base, particularly for his complex, often morally ambiguous characters.
Julian McMahon’s Lasting Love: Kelly Paniagua
Julian’s third and final marriage was to Kelly Paniagua, an Australian model, actress, and television personality. The couple began dating in 2003 and, after more than a decade together, tied the knot on June 30, 2014, in a romantic ceremony at Lake Tahoe. Their relationship was marked by deep affection and mutual support, with Kelly often accompanying Julian to red carpet events and standing by his side through life’s challenges.
Julian and Kelly’s relationship blossomed quietly, away from the glare of the media. They reportedly met through mutual friends in the early 2000s, and their bond grew stronger over the years. Julian’s daughter, Madison, played a special role in their engagement, helping her father propose to Kelly during a flight to Paris—a testament to the close-knit nature of their family.
What Does Kelly Paniagua Do?
Kelly Paniagua is a woman of many talents. She began her career as a model and later transitioned into acting, appearing in minor roles on Australian television, including Home and Away. In recent years, she has also established herself as an author of children’s books, further showcasing her creative spirit and versatility.
Family Life: Children and Bonds
Julian McMahon is survived by his daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, from his marriage to Brooke Burns. Madison, born in 2000, has made a name for herself as a professional volleyball player, winning a gold medal at the 2017 Pan American Cup and playing for top club teams in the United States. Julian was known to be a proud and supportive father, often speaking about his love and admiration for Madison’s achievements.
Julian McMahon’s Previous Marriages
Julian’s personal life was as eventful as his professional one. His first marriage was to Australian singer and actress Dannii Minogue, whom he met on the set of Home and Away in 1991. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage in 1994. However, the couple’s union was short-lived, lasting only about eighteen months. The pressures of their respective careers and reported tensions with Julian’s family contributed to their eventual separation.
In 1999, Julian married American actress Brooke Burns, best known for her role in Baywatch. Their relationship brought a new chapter of joy with the birth of their daughter, Madison Elizabeth McMahon, in June 2000. Unfortunately, the marriage ended in divorce in 2001, but Julian remained a devoted father to Madison, who would go on to become a professional volleyball player.
Julian McMahon’s Final Film!
In the last years of his life, Julian continued to act, with his final film, The Surfer, premiering at SXSW in March 2025 and releasing in theaters in May. He made his last public appearance at the film’s premiere, looking upbeat and engaged with fans and colleagues. Despite stepping back from the limelight after his departure from FBI: Most Wanted in 2022, Julian remained active in the industry and maintained a strong connection with his audience through social media and public events.
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Tragically, Julian McMahon passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 56, after a private battle with cancer. His wife, Kelly, was by his side, and she delivered the news to the public with a heartfelt statement, expressing gratitude for the love and support they had received. Julian’s legacy endures through his memorable performances, his loving family, and the joy he brought to fans around the world.
Remembering Julian McMahon
Julian McMahon’s life was a tapestry of artistic achievement, personal growth, and enduring love. From his early days as the son of a prime minister to his rise as an international star, and finally as a devoted husband and father, Julian’s story is one of resilience, passion, and humanity. His journey reminds us that even those who shine brightest on screen face their own battles off it—and that love, in the end, is the greatest legacy of all.
