Charmed star Julian McMahon dies aged 56

The Aussie actor was also known for his role in The Fantastic Four.

In a statement to Deadline, his wife Kelly said: "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.

"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. 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."

Son of former Australian Prime Minister William McMahon, Julian featured on Home and Away as Ben Lucini from 1990 to 1991.

He played Dr Doom in both The Fantastic Four films in the early 2000s.

He also played Christian Troy in Ryan Murphy's Nip/Tuck, which ran from 2003 to 2010.

Australian producer Robert Connolly said of him: "Julian was an exceptional gentleman, a consummate professional, a stunning actor and an absolute delight to work with.

"His performance in The Surfer is a triumph—one among many great performances in an incredible career—and a tour de force celebration of his skill and presence on our screens.

"His huge commitment to the film took Julian from the beaches of Western Australia, to its world premiere in Cannes, to the US and beyond, and we were all so very lucky to have shared this journey with such a gifted and exceptional performer.

"A true gift in all our careers to have had the chance to work together with such a wonderful person."