Julian McMahon, the talented Australian-American actor, recently passed away at 56 after a battle with cancer. He had a vibrant career that showcased his unique charm and versatility.
McMahon started in Australia, gaining fame on the soap opera Home and Away, where he played Ben Lucini. His big break came when he moved to the U.S., where he starred in Charmed as Cole Turner, a complex character who was both a love interest and a threat. Fans loved his smooth delivery and that signature twinkle in his eye.
In Nip/Tuck, McMahon played Dr. Christian Troy, an arrogant plastic surgeon. The show gained attention for its bold themes and McMahon’s ability to depict both confidence and vulnerability. At one point, he was even considered for the role of James Bond, which eventually went to Daniel Craig.
Over the years, he returned to Australia for various roles, including a standout part in the comedy Swinging Safari, where he explored the quirky side of 1970s culture. His role in the horror film Bait featured him as a robber trapped in a supermarket with sharks after a tsunami, and the film became a hit in China.
More recently, McMahon was seen playing the Australian Prime Minister in The Residence, a Netflix series that highlighted his return to local stories. Despite his established career, many felt his best work was still to come. In The Surfer, which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, he starred alongside Nicolas Cage. His performance was captivating, mixing charm with a chilling intensity that kept viewers on edge.
McMahon was not just known for his acting skills; his striking blue eyes and engaging personality made him memorable on set. During our conversation for The Surfer, he shared his thoughts on creativity and adaptability, emphasizing a willingness to embrace new ideas, even joking about the “pests” back home in Australia.
His passing leaves behind his wife, Kelly Paniagua, and his daughter, Madison, bringing to a close a journey that was both exciting and inspiring for many fans and fellow actors alike. McMahon’s legacy will certainly live on in the diverse roles he took on and the characters he brought to life.
For more on Julian McMahon’s remarkable contributions to film and television, check out this in-depth article from The Guardian.