Beloved Actor John Ashton Passes Away at 76

John Ashton, famous for his role in the 'Beverly Hills Cop' series, died at 76 after battling cancer. His career spanned five decades, featuring prominent roles in films and TV shows. Ashton is survived by his siblings.

Actor John Ashton, renowned for his role as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the 'Beverly Hills Cop' film series, has passed away at the age of 76.

His manager, Alan Somers, confirmed that Ashton died on Thursday after a brief battle with cancer, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

Ashton became beloved for his portrayal of Detective Taggart in the original 'Beverly Hills Cop' films of 1984 and 1987, and he was set to reprise this iconic role as a police chief in the upcoming 'Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F'.

The series featured stars Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold, and showcased Ashton's comedic timing and strong screen presence. Over a career spanning more than five decades, Ashton appeared in numerous films and television shows, earning a place in the hearts of fans.

Notable films include 'An Eye for an Eye' (1973), 'So Evil, My Sister' (1974), 'Cat Murkil and the Silks' (1976), 'Borderline' (1979), and 'Honky Tonk Freeway' (1981). His later works include 'Sweet Deadly Dreams' (2006), 'Gone Baby Gone' (2007), 'Middle Men' (2009), and 'Lonesome Soldier' (2023).

On television, Ashton had guest roles in popular shows like 'Columbo', 'Police Story', 'Barnaby Jones', and 'MASH'. One of his memorable television appearances was in the long-running series 'Dallas' during the 1978-79 season, where he played Willie Jo Garr, a character caught in a tragic storyline.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, John David Ashton was born on February 22, 1948, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Raised in Enfield, Connecticut, he graduated from USC with a BA in theater arts, paving the way for his successful acting career.

He is survived by his sisters, Sharon Ann Ashton and Linda Jean Ashton, and his brother, Edward Richard Ashton Jr. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)