John Ashton, beloved for his role as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop films, passed away Thursday in Fort Collins, Colorado, at the age of 76. His manager, Alan Somers, confirmed his death to Variety.
Ashton became a Hollywood favorite with his portrayal of Taggart, starring alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold in the original 1984 film and its 1987 sequel. He reprised his role in 2024’s Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, playing a now-promoted police chief, delighting longtime fans of the franchise.
Born on February 22, 1948, in Springfield, Massachusetts, Ashton grew up in Enfield, Connecticut. He attended Defiance College before transferring to the University of Southern California, where he earned his degree in theater arts. His love for acting led to a career spanning over 50 years, leaving an indelible mark on film and television.
Ashton’s career began in the early 1970s, with early film roles including An Eye for an Eye (1973) and Breaking Away (1979). He found further success in films such as Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) and Midnight Run (1988), showcasing his versatility. He also appeared in Ben Affleck’s Gone Baby Gone (2007), earning acclaim for his supporting role.
On television, Ashton made notable appearances in shows like MASH, Columbo, and The Twilight Zone, and starred in NBC’s crime drama Hardball.
He is survived by his wife, Robin Hoye, his children, stepchildren and extended family. Ashton’s warmth and versatility will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike. We at Mxdwn extend our condolences to the family of Ashton.
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