Entertainment
Hollywood Mourns Actor, Dies at 76
Clear Facts
- John Ashton, known for his role in “Beverly Hills Cop,” died at age 76.
- He passed away peacefully at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a battle with cancer.
- Ashton had a prolific career spanning over 200 film, television, and stage productions.
John Ashton, the celebrated actor best known for his role in the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, passed away on September 26 at the age of 76.
His representative, Alan Somers, confirmed that Ashton died peacefully in his Fort Collins, Colorado home following a battle with cancer.
Ashton’s career in Hollywood spanned an impressive 50 years, during which he participated in over 200 film, television, and stage productions.
He gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the “Beverly Hills Cop” series, a role he first took on in 1984.
Ashton appeared in three out of the four films in the franchise, including the latest installment, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” which was released on Netflix in 2024.
In addition to his film work, he co-hosted the “Ashton and Davis Show” on 870 ESPN Radio.
Beyond “Beverly Hills Cop,” Ashton had notable roles in “M*A*S*H” and played Eric Stoltz’s father in “Some Kind of Wonderful.”
He also worked alongside Robert De Niro in the 1988 film “Midnight Run” and appeared in a variety of other films such as “An Eye for an Eye,” “So Evil, My Sister,” and “Breaking Away.”
Other credits include “Borderline,” “Honky Tonk Freeway,” “Little Big League,” “Trapped in Paradise,” “In the Living Years,” “Fast Money,” “Hidden Assassin,” “Instinct,” “Middle Men,” and “Uncle John.”
“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service,” Somers said.
“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.”
The family has requested that donations in Ashton’s memory be made to Pathways Hospice Care.
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