John Ashton, the actor best known for his role as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the "Beverly Hills Cop" series, has passed away at the age of 76. Ashton died peacefully on September 26, 2024, at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado. The news of his death was confirmed by his manager, Alan Somers, who issued a statement acknowledging Ashton's significant impact on both his loved ones and the entertainment industry.
"John was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him," Somers said in a statement to Fox News Digital. "John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, and his extended family."
Ashton gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of John Taggart, starring alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold in the 1984 action-comedy classic "Beverly Hills Cop" and its sequel, "Beverly Hills Cop II" (1987). He reprised the role in the recently released "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F," which premiered on Netflix in July 2024. This final appearance as Taggart marked his return to the franchise after being absent in the third film. Reflecting on his return, Ashton described it as a "surreal" experience. "It gave me chills to be back with Eddie and Judge," Ashton remarked during a recent appearance on the Today show.
Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and raised in Enfield, Connecticut, Ashton pursued theater arts at the University of Southern California. He began his acting career in the 1970s, making a name for himself through various roles on both television and in film. Apart from his iconic role in Beverly Hills Cop, Ashton also starred in the 1988 action-comedy Midnight Run alongside Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin, where he played Marvin Dorfler, a rival bounty hunter. His performances cemented his status as a versatile and enduring actor.
Ashton's film credits extended beyond action-comedies. He appeared in John Hughes' Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) and She's Having a Baby (1988). He also worked with director Ben Affleck in the critically acclaimed Gone Baby Gone (2007). Throughout his career, Ashton showcased his talent in a wide range of genres, earning the respect of his peers and fans alike.
In addition to his film work, Ashton was a familiar face on television. He made guest appearances on numerous classic TV shows, including Columbo, MASH*, Dallas, The A-Team, Starsky & Hutch, and Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. His versatility in both drama and comedy roles endeared him to audiences for decades.
Reflecting on his friend and co-star, Eddie Murphy shared how important Ashton's role was to the success of the Beverly Hills Cop series. "We had done three Beverly Hills Cop movies, but the third one is a little soft compared to the other two, and it's because we didn't have all of the original cast. John being back for Axel F made everything feel right again," Murphy said in an interview with USA Today earlier this year.
In addition to his acting career, Ashton had a passion for golf and frequently participated in celebrity tournaments to raise money for various charities. His love for the game was well-known, as was his enthusiasm for the New York Yankees and New York Giants, two of his favorite sports teams.
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, and his grandson Henry. He is also survived by his siblings, who have described him as not only a talented actor but also a cherished family man.
In a heartfelt statement, his family reflected on his life, saying, "John's impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. His love for acting and his dedication to his craft will continue to inspire those who had the privilege to know him or see him on screen."
