Julian McMahon’s Cause of Death Revealed After Private Cancer Battle

“Charmed” and “Nip/Tuck” actor remembered by fans and costars after private cancer journey

Australian actor Julian McMahon, known for his breakout roles on Nip/Tuck and Charmed, died from complications related to metastatic cancer, according to newly released documents from the Pinellas County Medical Examiner’s Office in Florida.

A Cremation Approval Summary Report obtained by People confirmed that McMahon’s official cause of death was lung metastasis due to metastatic cancer originating in the head and neck. The manner of death was ruled natural, and his remains have been cremated.

McMahon died earlier this month following what his family described as a “private journey” with cancer.

Wife Shares Statement Honoring McMahon

McMahon’s wife, Kelly Paniagua, released a heartfelt statement on July 4 confirming his passing and celebrating his legacy.

“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.

“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,” she continued. “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.”

McMahon is survived by his wife and his daughter Madison, 25, whom he shared with ex-wife Brooke Burns.

Tributes From Costars and Friends

Following news of his death, McMahon’s former costars and friends in Hollywood paid tribute to his vibrant presence both on and off screen.

Alyssa Milano, who starred alongside McMahon on Charmed, shared her heartbreak on Instagram, writing, “He was more than my TV husband. He was a dear friend.”

Holly Marie Combs also honored McMahon’s memory, saying she would miss his “unyielding zest for life,” while Rose McGowan called him a “force of brilliance, wild talent and humor” in a message shared to her Instagram Stories.

McMahon portrayed Cole Turner on Charmed from 2000 to 2005, becoming a fan-favorite during the show’s run.

Nip/Tuck co-stars Dylan Walsh and Joely Richardson also reflected on their time with the actor. Walsh shared a statement with People, saying, “Dear Jules, I know you like to flout the boundaries, but this time you’ve gone too far.”

Richardson posted a video of herself watching the pilot episode of Nip/Tuck, writing that McMahon “just seemed bigger and stronger than the rest of us.”

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A post shared by Joely Richardson (@joelyrichardsonsinsta)

Fan Reactions Pour In

Fans of McMahon’s work across the decades have taken to social media to share memories, clips, and condolences. Many remembered him as a charming and intense screen presence, whose performances shaped a generation of supernatural and dramatic television.

“Julian McMahon as Cole Turner was the reason I watched Charmed growing up. This one hurts,” one fan wrote on X.

Another tweeted, “A true talent has passed away.”