John David Ashton, best known for his role as Chief John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, has passed away at the age of 76. Ashton died in Fort Collins, Colorado, after battling cancer, according to a statement from his representative.
Ashton, a native of Springfield, Massachusetts, had a long and celebrated career in both film and television. Over his 50-year career, he appeared in more than 200 screen and stage productions. He first appeared as Chief Taggart in the 1984 Beverly Hills Cop, starring alongside Eddie Murphy, and reprised his role in two additional sequels, including the latest one, which premiered on Netflix earlier this year. His straight-laced portrayal of the chief made him the perfect counterpart to Murphy’s wisecracking Axel Foley, with Judge Reinhold rounding out the trio as Detective Billy Rosewood.
In addition to his work on Beverly Hills Cop, Ashton had a wide range of credits, including appearances on MASH* and the 1987 John Hughes classic Some Kind of Wonderful. He also starred opposite Robert De Niro in the 1988 action-comedy Midnight Run.
Later in life, Ashton transitioned from acting to co-hosting “The Ashton and Davis Show” on 870 ESPN Radio, a sports program that reflected his passion for athletics.
Ashton’s representative, Alan Somers, said in a statement: “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, and extended family. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Ashton’s family has requested that any donations in his memory be made to Pathways Hospice Care in Larimer County, Colorado.
