Orlando, Fla. (FNN News) –Julian McMahon, the Australian actor beloved for his roles in Charmed, Nip/Tuck, and Fantastic Four, passed away recently at the age of 56 after a private battle with cancer. His wife, Kelly Paniagua, shared that he died peacefully, highlighting his valiant fight against the illness. McMahon’s career spanned decades, during which he captivated audiences with his charismatic and complex portrayals on both television and film.

Born in Sydney in 1968, McMahon had a unique background that not many fans might know: he was the son of Sir William McMahon, a former Prime Minister of Australia. This detail adds an intriguing layer to his story, blending politics and the arts in his family heritage. Julian initially began his career acting in Australian soap operas before moving to the U.S., where he gained recognition in shows like Another World and Profiler. His breakout role came in 2000 with Charmed, where he played Cole Turner, a character that won the hearts of many viewers. Later, his portrayal of Dr. Christian Troy in Nip/Tuck earned him critical acclaim and a Golden Globe nomination.

Beyond television, McMahon also made his mark in film. He appeared in movies such as Premonition, RED, and notably the Fantastic Four franchise, where he took on the role of the iconic villain Doctor Doom. In an art-imitating-life moment, his final project was the Netflix whodunit series The Residence, in which he portrayed an Australian prime minister—a role that echoed his own family background as the son of a former Australian prime minister. Colleagues and fans alike have expressed their sorrow at his passing, remembering him not only for his talent but also for his warmth, kindness, and the joy he brought to those around him.

Tributes poured in from co-stars such as Alyssa Milano and Holly Marie Combs, who fondly recalled his vibrant spirit and generosity. Nicolas Cage, who worked with McMahon in The Surfer, described him as one of his favorite people, praising both his talent and character. Julian McMahon leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances and a deep impact on those who knew him personally. He is survived by his wife Kelly and their daughter Madison, with the family asking for privacy during this difficult time.

Julian McMahon’s life and career were marked by a rare combination of charm, depth, and dedication. His journey from the son of a prime minister to a celebrated actor touched many, making his loss all the more poignant. Though he has passed, his work and spirit continue to inspire fans around the world.

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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

Orlando, FL (FNN News) – The curtain’s closing—but not on Misty Copeland.

After 25 trailblazing years at American Ballet Theatre, the ballerina who made history (and headlines) as the first Black female principal dancer is officially retiring. Her final performance? A star-studded, once-in-a-generation gala at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater on October 22, 2025.

Copeland hasn’t danced onstage in five years. But she’s coming back for one last breathtaking moment: a Romeo and Juliet pas de deux with longtime partner Herman Cornejo. Expect elegance, emotion—and maybe a few tears. The night will feature ABT dancers, surprise guest appearances, and video tributes that trace her iconic rise from late-starter to dance-world disruptor.

She helped choreograph the whole thing—because of course she did.

Misty’s journey has been anything but typical. She didn’t slip into ballet slippers at age three. She started at 13. But her power, poise, and refusal to be boxed in shattered the mold. In 2015, she broke one of ballet’s most stubborn barriers when she became ABT’s first Black female principal dancer. The world took notice, and suddenly young dancers everywhere saw themselves reflected in the spotlight.

Her retirement doesn’t mean she’s disappearing from dance. Not even close. “It’s time to move to the next stage,” she said. That means more time with the Misty Copeland Foundation, which she launched in 2021 to push for equity in dance education. More books. More film projects. More mentorship. And yes—possibly more dancing. “Never say never,” she teased.

But her departure also raises big questions. With Misty gone, ABT is once again without a Black female principal. It’s a reminder that one icon can’t fix an entire system. Which is exactly why Misty’s next act will happen offstage, where she plans to shape what ballet looks like for the next generation—at every level.

Tickets to the gala haven’t gone on sale yet, but when they do, they’ll be some of the hottest seats in the city.

So yes, October 22 will be emotional. It will be historic. But it won’t be the end.

It’s Misty Copeland—Act II.

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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com

Orlando, FL – (FNN) R&B legends Brandy and Monica are finally giving fans what they’ve been waiting for—a joint tour more than 25 years in the making. Titled The Boy Is Mine Tour, the 24-city arena trek will see the iconic singers share the stage as co-headliners for the first time, a full-circle moment for one of the most talked-about collaborations in music history.

The two first teamed up in 1998 for their smash hit “The Boy Is Mine,” which became a chart-topping phenomenon and a defining track of the era. But behind the scenes—and often in public discourse—their relationship was painted as tense. Fans and media alike latched onto the narrative of two young women battling over a fictional love interest, fueling rumors of a feud that overshadowed their groundbreaking achievement.

Now, decades later, Brandy and Monica are rewriting the story. Both women have made it clear that time, growth, and honest conversations have helped mend misunderstandings. Instead of rivalry, this tour highlights resilience, evolution, and a shared legacy that helped define modern R&B.

The tour kicks off October 16, 2025, in Cincinnati and wraps December 7 in Houston. Fans can expect high-energy performances, surprises, and a celebration of one of the most iconic pairings in music. Joining them on select dates will be Kelly Rowland, Muni Long, and rising star Jamal Roberts.

For Brandy and Monica, this isn’t just a tour—it’s a long-overdue celebration of artistry, womanhood, and rewriting a misunderstood history.

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Kareen Kennedy is the Assistant Editor for Florida National News
kareen.kennedy@floridanationalnews.com