John Ashton, ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ Star, Dies at 76
John Ashton, the actor most famous for playing Eddie Murphy’s film foil Detective John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise has died at 76. His manager, Alan Somers, confirmed that Ashton died at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado, on Thursday. Her cause of death has not been revealed.
John Ashton Hollywood Career 50+Years
Ashton, who died in January, was a veteran character actor with more than 50 years of work under his belt. He appeared in several TV shows and film roles, but his role as the grizzled, yet likable Detective John Taggart in “Beverly Hills Cop” solidified his status as a household name. Ashton appeared in 1984 hit action-comedy, and returned the trinity of crime solvers along side Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold two years later for the sequel.
Best Roles from Film & TV
In addition to Beverly Hills Cop, Ashton starred in several other iconic roles. Ashton proved his range as an actor in Martin Brest’s 1988 comedy Midnight Run, where he plays a bounty hunter in competition with character played by Robert De Niro. His other credits include Little Big League and Gone Baby Gone.
Ashton returned most recently to his character of Detective Taggart in Netflix reboot Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, released earlier this year.
Tributes Pour In
Ashton’s long term BHC co-star, Judge Reinhold (Detective Billy Rosewood in BHC), shared a heart wrenching tribute upon learning the sad news. “John LIVED his life! To my brother, to the man I owe my business partner – you know who you are I love you. “John there’s no smoking in Heaven,” Reinhold quipped, a reference to their on-screen and offscreen bond.
A Life of Laughter and Friendship
John Ashton is gone, but his career results in the end of our story time for today as you slip into a John Ashton wormhole of laughs and action and characters. The way he plays Detective Taggart is still something fans of the series idolize and his contribution to the entertainment world will be remembered. Both his fans and co-stars will forever remember him for the love and laughter he brought to every work project.
Ashton will be survived by his memorable portrayals and the happiness he shared on-screen and in real life.