John Ashton, the acclaimed actor best known for his role as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the iconic “Beverly Hills Cop” series, has passed away at the age of 76. The news of his death was confirmed by his representative, who stated that Ashton died peacefully in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Ashton’s career spanned over five decades, during which he made significant contributions to film, television, and theater, appearing in more than 200 productions. He rose to fame in 1984 when he starred alongside Eddie Murphy in the original “Beverly Hills Cop” film, which became a cultural phenomenon. His portrayal of the no-nonsense detective provided a perfect foil to Murphy’s comedic antics, establishing him as a household name.
Throughout the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, Ashton reprised his role in three of the four films, including the most recent installment that premiered on Netflix to favorable reviews from both fans and critics. His character, Detective Taggart, was beloved for his dedication to duty and his interactions with Murphy’s character, Axel Foley, and Judge Reinhold’s character, Detective Billy Rosewood.
In addition to his iconic role in the “Beverly Hills Cop” series, Ashton had a diverse acting portfolio. He made memorable appearances in the classic television series “M*A*S*H” and played the role of Eric Stoltz’s father in John Hughes’ comedy-drama “Some Kind of Wonderful.” In 1988, Ashton showcased his versatility by co-starring in the action-comedy “Midnight Run,” where he played a rival bounty hunter opposite Robert De Niro.
Ashton’s most recent work included co-hosting the “Ashton and Davis Show” on 870 ESPN Radio, where he continued to engage with fans and share his passion for storytelling and entertainment.
His representative, Alan Somers, expressed heartfelt sentiments about Ashton’s legacy, stating, “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family, and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
In honor of John Ashton’s memory, the family has requested that donations be made to Pathways Hospice Care, an organization dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to patients and families during difficult times.
As the entertainment industry mourns the loss of this talented actor, fans remember him not only for his memorable roles but also for his warm personality and commitment to his craft. John Ashton will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him and enjoying his work.
