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The actor | Source: Getty Images
The actor | Source: Getty Images

This 2000s Crush's Fans Can't Believe How He Looks at 56 – His Before-and-After Photos

Gaone Pule
Jun 09, 2025
07:41 A.M.

The seasoned actor continues to grace the screen with his performances, leaving fans amazed by how youthful he still looks. Take a closer look at the moments that have shaped his life through the years.

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The Australian-American film icon is in his 50s, and many admirers believe he's aging like fine wine. One fan even shared that he continues to be a top favorite.

The star poses at 18 Drumalbyn, Bellevue Hill on December 7, 1988 | Source: Getty Images

The star poses at 18 Drumalbyn, Bellevue Hill on December 7, 1988 | Source: Getty Images

From starting his career and facing the heartbreak of losing both parents to marrying three times and dealing with relationship troubles caused by his mother's involvement, the star has seen it all. Still active in show business, here's how he changed over the years.

1980s

Before making it big in acting, the future leading man stepped into the spotlight through modeling, appearing in a range of TV ads. By 1987, his work had taken him to fashion capitals including Los Angeles, New York, Milan, Rome, and Paris.

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The actor pictured on April 14, 1987 | Source: Getty Images

The actor pictured on April 14, 1987 | Source: Getty Images

A popular jeans commercial in his home country gave his public image a strong boost. Thanks to that attention, the star, whose father Sir William died in March 1988 at 80, landed a starring role in "The Power, the Passion" — an Australian drama often likened to "Dynasty."

The celebrity attends a memorial service for the late Sir William at St. Andrew's Cathedral on April 8, 1988 | Source: Getty Images

The celebrity attends a memorial service for the late Sir William at St. Andrew's Cathedral on April 8, 1988 | Source: Getty Images

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After a year and a half on that show, the young performer moved on to "Home and Away," where his acting skills earned him a best actor title from a national magazine. He also met his first wife, Dannii Minogue, on the set of the drama series.

The star poses at 18 Drumalbyn, Bellevue Hill on December 7, 1988 | Source: Getty Images

The star poses at 18 Drumalbyn, Bellevue Hill on December 7, 1988 | Source: Getty Images

His success on television soon led to opportunities in theater. He later took part in a musical stage version of "Home and Away" performed in Britain. Audiences in Sydney and Melbourne also saw him in the play "Love Letters," where he continued to show his range as a performer.

1990s

As his career picked up speed, new doors began to open across the globe. Following a lead role in the 1993 film "Wet and Wild Summer!" alongside Elliott Gould, he made the move to Hollywood to explore more roles in American productions.

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The actor poses for a portrait at an unspecified event on January 1, 1993, in New York | Source: Getty Images

The actor poses for a portrait at an unspecified event on January 1, 1993, in New York | Source: Getty Images

Not long after, in 1992, he secured a part as Ian Rain on NBC's long-running daytime drama "Another World." He left "Another World" after two years, aiming to grow as an actor and explore new opportunities.

Dannii Minogue and the actor attend the Musical Premiere of "Cats," 1995 | Source: Getty Images

Dannii Minogue and the actor attend the Musical Premiere of "Cats," 1995 | Source: Getty Images

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During that time, he appeared in several stage productions in Los Angeles. It was also around then that he tied the knot with singer and television personality Minogue.

The celebrity at the NBC Network TCA Summer Press Tour on July 18, 1997 | Source: Getty Images

The celebrity at the NBC Network TCA Summer Press Tour on July 18, 1997 | Source: Getty Images

However, the marriage was brief and ended the next year. Afterward, he took on a role in the 1997 film "Magenta" and soon after was cast as Agent John Grant on the crime drama "Profiler," where he remained for four seasons.

The star arrives at the billiards tournament on June 23, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

The star arrives at the billiards tournament on June 23, 1998 | Source: Getty Images

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After building momentum in both television and film, his personal life also saw new developments. In 1999, the well-known figure married fashion model and game show host Brooke Burns.

2000s

The early part of the new decade brought both joy and change in his personal life. In June 2000, he and Burns welcomed their daughter Madison Elizabeth, their only child together. However, the marriage ended the following year.

The celebrity during the Television Critics Association Cable Tour on July 10, 2001, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

The celebrity during the Television Critics Association Cable Tour on July 10, 2001, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

As the decade moved forward, life brought new challenges beyond the screen. Several years later in 2009, the celebrity's mother Sonia, a well-known Sydney socialite and wife of former prime minister William, was hospitalized after a serious fall.

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The celebrity attends the 55th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on September 21, 2003, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

The celebrity attends the 55th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards on September 21, 2003, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

At 77, she was admitted to St Vincent's Hospital following an accident on a luxury boat outing in Sydney Harbour. She remained in intensive care in stable condition, though the full extent of her injuries was not confirmed.

The actor during "Blue Jam Sessions" Kicks Off at the House of Blues With Elvis Costello & The Imposters on February 4, 2004, in West Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

The actor during "Blue Jam Sessions" Kicks Off at the House of Blues With Elvis Costello & The Imposters on February 4, 2004, in West Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

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A hospital spokesperson noted she might need to stay for several days, but her recovery remained uncertain at the time.

The actor attends the "Nip/Tuck" celebration of the show's Miami to Los Angeles move on October 25, 2007, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

The actor attends the "Nip/Tuck" celebration of the show's Miami to Los Angeles move on October 25, 2007, in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

2010s

The new decade began on a difficult note for actor Julian McMahon, best known for his roles in "Nip/Tuck" and "Charmed," as well as his work in various film and television projects.

Julian McMahon arrives at The Weinstein Company And Relativity Media's 2011 Golden Globe Awards Party in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon arrives at The Weinstein Company And Relativity Media's 2011 Golden Globe Awards Party in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

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In April 2010, his mother Sonia passed away, two weeks after being admitted to St Vincent's Hospital. Her death followed a cancer diagnosis the previous year, during which she underwent surgery to remove a melanoma and nearby lymph nodes.

Julian McMahon attends the "2015 NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment Upfront" in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon attends the "2015 NBCUniversal Cable Entertainment Upfront" in New York City. | Source: Getty Images

When she returned to the hospital, doctors shifted their attention to her lungs. Reports claimed that lung cancer had been discovered, and friends believed it was the original, though previously undisclosed, source of the disease.

Julian McMahon holds the Melbourne cup at the Emirates Marquee on Melbourne Cup Day on November 3, 2015, in Melbourne, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon holds the Melbourne cup at the Emirates Marquee on Melbourne Cup Day on November 3, 2015, in Melbourne, Australia. | Source: Getty Images

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Soon after learning of his mother's condition, Julian made the journey back to Australia. His sisters, Melinda and Deborah McMahon, had informed him of Sonia's failing health, prompting him to return home.

Julian McMahon attends the 6th AACTA International Awards on January 6, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon attends the 6th AACTA International Awards on January 6, 2017, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Knowing he would be staying by her side for some time, he checked into the same hospital to undergo treatment for a degenerative back issue. One of the hospital's leading neurosurgeons, believed to be Dr. Tim Steel performed a delicate surgery on him just six days before Sonia's passing.

Julian McMahon arrives at the premiere of "Marvel's Runaways," 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon arrives at the premiere of "Marvel's Runaways," 2017 | Source: Getty Images

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Following the procedure, Julian was temporarily immobile, and it took a couple of days before he could visit his mother. By then, her condition had worsened. It remains unclear whether he was with her when she died, but reports confirm he checked out of the hospital the following day.

Julian McMahon attends the world premiere of "Swinging Safari," 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon attends the world premiere of "Swinging Safari," 2017 | Source: Getty Images

Four years later, in July 2014, Julian married for the third time, tying the knot with Kelly Paniagua. In 2019, five years after his wedding to Paniagua, his first wife Minogue spoke openly about their past relationship during a candid interview, sharing personal reflections on their time together.

Julian McMahon spotted on December 13, 2018, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon spotted on December 13, 2018, in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

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The interview shed light on the challenges she faced during their marriage, especially with Julian's family. She shared that Sonia was not fond of her and barely spoke to her. The tension grew so intense that she was even barred from entering the family home, often left waiting in the car while Julian went inside.

Roxy Sternberg and Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Roxy Sternberg and Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2019 | Source: Getty Images

She also recalled the turmoil surrounding their wedding day in 1994. According to the actress, Sonia had threatened not to attend, which added stress to what should have been a happy occasion.

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2019 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2019 | Source: Getty Images

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In the end, she did show up but caused a scene. Minogue said she tried to stay away from the conflict, wanting to enjoy the day as best she could. While their relationship ended, both have continued on separate paths since then.

2020s

In the midst of personal growth and reflection, Julian also continued building his career. In January 2022, after three seasons in the role of Supervisory Special Agent Jess LaCroix, he left CBS' "FBI: Most Wanted."

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2020 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2020 | Source: Getty Images

The show, a spinoff from the "FBI" franchise produced by Dick Wolf, featured Julian as a key character until his departure. His final episode was scheduled to air on March 8, 2022, with sources confirming that a new character would be introduced later in the season to take over his spot.

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Julian McMahon pictured on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2021 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon pictured on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2021 | Source: Getty Images

The actor spoke about his exit from the show in a statement, sharing his appreciation for the experience. The Hollywood star said:

"The producers and I discussed my departure in favor of additional creative pursuits and the transition of my character Jess LaCroix. These talks allowed us to plan a smooth and productive exit."

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2022 | Source: Getty Images

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"I'm proud of the work we've done, and playing Jess has been one of the highlights of my career. I'm thankful for the chance to bring him to life and wish the cast and crew continued success," he added.

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon on the set of "FBI: Most Wanted," 2022 | Source: Getty Images

Now at 56, Julian, who also serves as a Stand Up To Cancer ambassador, continues to draw admiration for his timeless charm and presence on screen.

Julian McMahon speaking as an ambassador of Stand Up to Cancer, dated December 2020 | Source: Instagram/julianmcmahon

Julian McMahon speaking as an ambassador of Stand Up to Cancer, dated December 2020 | Source: Instagram/julianmcmahon

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Following the release of the trailer for his latest film "The Surfer," fans were quick to share their excitement. One supporter cheered, "Jules looks fantastic," adding applause emojis to their praise. Another person, clearly thrilled by his familiar role, commented, "My favorite demon," in a nod to his memorable character from past work.

Julian McMahon poses for a selfie shot, dated May 2024 | Source: Instagram/julianmcmahon

Julian McMahon poses for a selfie shot, dated May 2024 | Source: Instagram/julianmcmahon

In another social media uploaded, people commented with enthusiasm. One person wrote, "You're a very handsome man." Another added, "Very handsome gentleman," while a third simply stated, "Still looking great Julian. Cheers Michelle, from Sydney."

Julian McMahon attends the "The Surfer" Red Carpet at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2024, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon attends the "The Surfer" Red Carpet at the 77th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 17, 2024, in Cannes, France. | Source: Getty Images

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Others gush over how well he has aged. Expressing awe, a fan shared, "Calling it! You age like a fine wine every single time. You are beautiful, Julian. True class!" Another admirer chimed in with, "Wow, always been the finest man ever, and even better with age. Hot damn." Some celebrate his growing appeal. One follower said, "You only get better baby."

Julian McMahon attends the premiere of "The Surfer," 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon attends the premiere of "The Surfer," 2025 | Source: Getty Images

Julian McMahon's journey has spanned decades, marked by career highs and personal trials. From modeling to major television roles, he has remained a consistent presence in the entertainment world. His resilience and versatility continue to earn him respect and admiration. At his age, he shows no signs of slowing down.

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