Sad News for “Beverly Hills Cop” fans: Iconic Star John Ashton Passes Away at 76
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The entertainment world is mourning the loss of a beloved character actor who left an indelible mark on one of the most iconic film franchises of the 1980s.
John Ashton, best known for his role as the no-nonsense cop, John Taggart, in the “Beverly Hills Cop” series, has passed away at the age of 76. His death on September 26 in Colorado was announced with a heartfelt obituary that highlighted his roles as a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather. Published by USA TODAY it read:
"John was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him". 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."
His cause of death was not disclosed.
Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and raised in Enfield, Connecticut, Ashton's passion for acting led him to study theater arts at the University of Southern California. His career began in the 1970s, and he quickly became a familiar face on both the big and small screens. While his role in “Beverly Hills Cop” alongside Eddie Murphy is perhaps his most memorable, Ashton's filmography is rich with diverse characters.
In addition to his work in “King Kong Lives” (1986), “Some Kind of Wonderful” (1987), “She's Having a Baby” (1988), and “Gone Baby Gone” (2007), Ashton appeared in a variety of classic television shows. His TV credits include “Columbo”, “M*A*S*H”, “Dallas”, “The A-Team”, “The Twilight Zone”, “Fantasy Island”, and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”. His versatility and everyman charm made him a go-to character actor who could bring authenticity and gravitas to any role.
The original “Beverly Hills Cop” film, released in 1984, was a cultural phenomenon that blended action and comedy in a way that resonated with audiences worldwide. Ashton's portrayal of Taggart provided a perfect foil to Eddie Murphy's wisecracking Axel Foley. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, and Ashton's performance was integral to the film's success.
Ashton reprised his role in “Beverly Hills Cop II”, and fans were delighted to see him return in the Netflix follow-up, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.” His presence in the franchise was so significant that Eddie Murphy himself noted the absence of Ashton and other original cast members as a reason for the lackluster reception of “Beverly Hills Cop III.”
Murphy's recent comments about the importance of having the original cast back together for “Axel F” underscored Ashton's impact on the series. The reunion of the original cast members was not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it was a testament to the enduring appeal of the characters and the actors who brought them to life.
As we reflect on John Ashton's career, it's clear that his contributions to the entertainment industry were substantial. His ability to bring depth and reliability to his characters made him a beloved figure among fans and peers alike. The outpouring of tributes from those who worked with him and those who admired him from afar speaks volumes about his character and professionalism.
For many of us at The GrayVine, Ashton's performances were part of the soundtrack of our lives. His work in “Beverly Hills Cop” and other films provided moments of laughter, excitement, and drama that have stayed with us through the years. As we say goodbye to John Ashton, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of memorable characters, impactful performances, and a career that touched the hearts of many.
John Ashton's memory will indeed be treasured, not only by his family and friends but by the countless fans who will continue to enjoy his work for generations to come. Rest in peace, John Ashton. If you have any fond memories of watching John Ashton in some of your favorite movies, please share them with us in the comments below!
John Ashton, best known for his role as the no-nonsense cop, John Taggart, in the “Beverly Hills Cop” series, has passed away at the age of 76. His death on September 26 in Colorado was announced with a heartfelt obituary that highlighted his roles as a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather. Published by USA TODAY it read:
"John was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him". 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."
His cause of death was not disclosed.
John Ashton has sadly passed away at 76. Image source: Facebook / MovieWeb.
Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and raised in Enfield, Connecticut, Ashton's passion for acting led him to study theater arts at the University of Southern California. His career began in the 1970s, and he quickly became a familiar face on both the big and small screens. While his role in “Beverly Hills Cop” alongside Eddie Murphy is perhaps his most memorable, Ashton's filmography is rich with diverse characters.
In addition to his work in “King Kong Lives” (1986), “Some Kind of Wonderful” (1987), “She's Having a Baby” (1988), and “Gone Baby Gone” (2007), Ashton appeared in a variety of classic television shows. His TV credits include “Columbo”, “M*A*S*H”, “Dallas”, “The A-Team”, “The Twilight Zone”, “Fantasy Island”, and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”. His versatility and everyman charm made him a go-to character actor who could bring authenticity and gravitas to any role.
The original “Beverly Hills Cop” film, released in 1984, was a cultural phenomenon that blended action and comedy in a way that resonated with audiences worldwide. Ashton's portrayal of Taggart provided a perfect foil to Eddie Murphy's wisecracking Axel Foley. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, and Ashton's performance was integral to the film's success.
Ashton reprised his role in “Beverly Hills Cop II”, and fans were delighted to see him return in the Netflix follow-up, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.” His presence in the franchise was so significant that Eddie Murphy himself noted the absence of Ashton and other original cast members as a reason for the lackluster reception of “Beverly Hills Cop III.”
Murphy's recent comments about the importance of having the original cast back together for “Axel F” underscored Ashton's impact on the series. The reunion of the original cast members was not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it was a testament to the enduring appeal of the characters and the actors who brought them to life.
As we reflect on John Ashton's career, it's clear that his contributions to the entertainment industry were substantial. His ability to bring depth and reliability to his characters made him a beloved figure among fans and peers alike. The outpouring of tributes from those who worked with him and those who admired him from afar speaks volumes about his character and professionalism.
For many of us at The GrayVine, Ashton's performances were part of the soundtrack of our lives. His work in “Beverly Hills Cop” and other films provided moments of laughter, excitement, and drama that have stayed with us through the years. As we say goodbye to John Ashton, we celebrate the legacy he leaves behind—a legacy of memorable characters, impactful performances, and a career that touched the hearts of many.
John Ashton's memory will indeed be treasured, not only by his family and friends but by the countless fans who will continue to enjoy his work for generations to come. Rest in peace, John Ashton. If you have any fond memories of watching John Ashton in some of your favorite movies, please share them with us in the comments below!
