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| Julian McMahon: getty image |
By Tulesh Malekar
Julian McMahon is the kind of actor who doesn’t just play a role—he owns it. With his piercing gaze, refined charisma, and undeniable range, McMahon has carved out a unique place in Hollywood. From charming soap opera heartthrob to iconic supervillain, his journey is a testament to versatility, evolution, and enduring appeal.
Early Life: From Politics to Performing
Born in Sydney, Australia, Julian Dana William McMahon is the son of Lady Sonia McMahon and former Australian Prime Minister Sir William McMahon. While politics ran in the family, Julian’s ambitions took a more creative route. He started as a fashion model, making waves in the Australian and international fashion scenes before pivoting to acting in the early 1990s.
First Break: Home and Away
McMahon’s breakout role came with the hit Australian soap opera Home and Away, where he played Ben Lucini. His portrayal of a sensitive and rebellious young man quickly made him a fan favorite. It was here that audiences first got a glimpse of the emotional depth and screen presence that would become his signature.
The Rise to Stardom: Charmed and Nip/Tuck
Julian’s big move to the U.S. brought him into the supernatural world of Charmed, where he played the conflicted demon-turned-lover Cole Turner. His chemistry with Alyssa Milano’s character, Phoebe Halliwell, captivated viewers and turned him into a cult icon. Cole’s descent from love interest to dark entity allowed McMahon to explore complex character arcs rarely seen on TV at the time.
Then came Nip/Tuck, the FX medical drama that catapulted him to critical acclaim. As Dr. Christian Troy, McMahon embodied the vanity, vulnerability, and inner demons of a celebrity plastic surgeon. The show pushed boundaries, and McMahon’s performance was central to its gritty, stylish tone. It earned him nominations and established him as one of the most compelling actors on cable television.
Hollywood Calling: Doctor Doom in Fantastic Four
In 2005, McMahon took on a legendary comic book villain: Victor Von Doom in Fantastic Four and its 2007 sequel. While the films received mixed reviews, McMahon’s performance was praised for its sophistication and intensity. He brought a suave, calculating menace to Doom—a character often flattened in other interpretations. For many fans, his portrayal remains one of the more memorable elements of the early Marvel film era.
Recent Roles: FBI and Beyond
McMahon continued his television streak with NBC’s FBI: Most Wanted, taking on the role of Supervisory Special Agent Jess LaCroix. This time, he swapped stylish villainy for a steady, determined hero, showcasing yet another facet of his acting range. His departure from the show in 2022 was met with widespread appreciation and respect for his character’s integrity and quiet strength.
Beyond FBI, McMahon has maintained a steady presence in both television and film, often choosing roles that challenge expectations and defy typecasting.
Why Julian McMahon Still Matters
Julian McMahon’s ability to seamlessly shift between genres—from soap opera to supernatural, from medical drama to superhero cinema—is rare. He remains a fan favorite not just for his looks or charisma but for the nuanced performances he brings to every role. Whether he’s playing a charming antihero or a tortured soul, McMahon always delivers depth, elegance, and unpredictability.
Final Thoughts
Julian McMahon isn’t just a familiar face on screen—he’s a layered performer who continues to evolve. As fans, we’ve watched him grow from young heartthrob to one of TV’s most magnetic actors. With each role, he reminds us why he’s still relevant in an ever-changing entertainment landscape.
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