John Ashton,Beverly Hills CopStar, Dies at 76

Mar. 15, 2025

John Ashton attends the premiere of ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’ in June 2024.Photo:VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty

VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty

John Ashton, known for his starring role in theBeverly Hills Copmovies, has died. He was 76.

Born in 1948 in Springfield, Mass., Ashton began his career in theater, touring with companies across the U.S. and U.K., before heading to Los Angeles to work in television.

He made dozens of appearances on well-known series from the 1970s to the 2000s, includingKojak,Columbo,Police Story,Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Tracey Ullman Show, MAS*HandStarsky & Hutch.Ashton also had a recurring role inDallas,playing the character Willie Joe Garr.

From left: John Ashton, Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold in ‘Beverly Hills Cop’.CBS via Getty

CBS via Getty

Ashton’s most well-known work came in 1984, when he starred alongsideEddie Murphyas hard-nosed police officer John Taggart inBeverly Hills Cop.He remained in the role for the rest of the comedy franchise, appearing in 1987’sBeverly Hills Cop IIand, most recently, 2024’sBeverly Hills Cop: Axel F.

Miramax Films/Kobal/Shutterstock

Most recently, he turned to sport radio, hosting theAshton and Davis Showon 870 ESPN Radio in Colorado.

Outside of his entertainment career, Ashton was an avid lover of golf and was “always trying new techniques to improve his game and made sure he acquired the latest and most up-to-date equipment,” according to his obituary.

“However, it was his work as an actor/entertainer in theater, film and television where his skill and dedication were most clearly demonstrated. John devoted his career to honing his craft and bringing characters to life on the screen,” the obituary continued. “His presence will be greatly missed.”

John Ashton (left) and Eddie Murphy in ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F’.Melinda Sue Gordon/Netflix

Melinda Sue Gordon/Netflix

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“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service,” his obituary continued. “John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”

His family requests that any donations be made to Pathways Hospice Care in Colorado.

source: people.com