Actor John Ashton, best known for his role as a detective in the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, has died, his publicist Alan Somers confirmed to CBS News on Sunday. He was 79 years old.
Ashton died Thursday in Ft. Collins, Colorado, after a battle with cancer.
“John was a loving husband, brother, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed by all who knew him,” a statement said.
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Ashton was born in Springfield, Massachusetts on February 22, 1948, and raised in Enfield, Connecticut. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Southern California.
Throughout his 50-year career in show business, Ashton appeared in nearly 100 films after making his debut in 1973’s “The Psychopath.”
He was probably best known for his role as a detective. Sgt. John Taggart in the first two parts of the series “Beverly Hills Cop” alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold. He reprized his role in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” in 2024.
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Other film credits include “Some Kind of Wonderful”, “She’s Have a Baby”, “Midnight Run”, “Little Big League” and “Gone Baby Gone”.
On television, he played Willie Joe Garr in several episodes of “Dallas” and made an appearance on shows such as “Columbo,” “Police Squad!” “Hardball” and others.
“John dedicated his career to perfecting his craft and bringing characters to life on screen. His presence will be greatly missed,” Somers said.
Ashton is survived by his wife Robin Hoye, three children, three stepchildren and one grandson. He also leaves behind two sisters and a brother.
“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service. His memory will forever be cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, extended family and all those who loved him,” Somers said. “John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
The family requests that any donations in Ashton’s memory be made to Pathways Hospice Care.
