John Ashton, best known for his role as the gruff but lovable Detective John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop series, has passed away at the age of 76. Ashton died on September 26 in Ft. Collins, Colorado, following a battle with cancer, his manager confirmed to PEOPLE. TMZ first reported the news.
Born in 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts, Ashton’s acting career spanned decades, with appearances in numerous TV shows and films. Before moving to Los Angeles to pursue television, Ashton cut his teeth in theater, touring with companies in both the U.S. and the U.K.
Throughout the 1970s and early 2000s, Ashton became a familiar face on popular TV series such as Kojak, Columbo, Police Story, and Starsky & Hutch. He also held a recurring role in Dallas as Willie Joe Garr, alongside other notable guest appearances on shows like MASH* and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.
However, it was Ashton’s portrayal of the straight-laced police officer John Taggart in 1984’s Beverly Hills Cop that made him a household name. Starring opposite Eddie Murphy’s Axel Foley, Ashton’s role became a key part of the film’s success. He reprised the role in 1987’s Beverly Hills Cop II and appeared again in the franchise’s latest installment, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, set for release in 2024.
Beyond Beverly Hills Cop, Ashton starred in a variety of films over the years, including Midnight Run alongside Robert De Niro, Some Kind of Wonderful, She’s Having a Baby, and Gone Baby Gone. His body of work earned him a reputation for bringing depth and authenticity to every role.
In later years, Ashton ventured into sports radio, co-hosting The Ashton and Davis Show on 870 ESPN Radio in Colorado, sharing his insights and passion for the game of golf, a personal favorite hobby of his. Known for constantly upgrading his golf equipment, Ashton remained an enthusiastic player and never stopped searching for ways to improve his swing.
Ashton’s obituary celebrated his dedication to acting, noting, “It was his work as an actor and entertainer in theater, film, and television where his skill and dedication were most clearly demonstrated. John devoted his career to honing his craft and bringing characters to life on the screen.”
The obituary also reflected on his lasting legacy, stating, “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Ashton is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye; his children Michelle Ashton and Michael Thomas Ashton; his stepchildren Courtney Donovan, Lindsay Curcio, and Ashley Hoye; his grandson Henry; and his siblings Sharon Ann Ashton, Linda Jean Ashton, and Edward Richard Ashton. He was preceded in death by his parents.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Pathways Hospice Care in Colorado in John Ashton’s memory.
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