Beloved 'Beverly Hills Cop' actor dies at 76

John Ashton, known for his role as Sgt. John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop series, has died at the age of 76.

Ashton's manager Alan Somers confirmed his death to multiple media outlets, including Variety and TMZ, noting that Taggart died Thursday in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a battle with cancer.

Ashton's character appeared in the first two installments of the Beverly Hills Cop series, released in 1984 and 1987. The films starred Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley and Judge Reinhold as Det. Billy Rosewood. He reprized his role in 2024's Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, in which his character was now the police chief.

Born on February 22, 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts, his acting career has spanned more than 50 years. His previous appearances include 1973's “Eye for an Eye,” 1974's “So Evil, My Sister,” 1976's “Cat Murkil and the Silks,” 1979's “Breaking Away,” 1980's “Borderline,” and 1980's “Honky Tonk Freeway.” from 1981.

His most notable roles include playing Eric Stoltz's father in the teen romantic comedy “Some Kind of Wonderful,” bounty hunter murderer Marvin Dorfler in “Midnight Run,” a pitching coach in “Little Big League,” and a Boston detective in ” Gone.” Baby gone.”

Ashton also appeared in episodes of “M*A*S*H,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Dallas,” “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and a revival of “The Twilight Zone.”

Ashton is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye. children Michelle Ashton and Michael Thomas Ashton; stepchildren Courtney Donovan, Lindsay Curcio and Ashley Hoye; grandson Henry; sisters Sharon Ann Ashton and Linda Jean Ashton; and brother Edward Richard Ashton.

“John leaves a legacy of love, dedication and service,” Somers said in a statement. “His memory will forever be cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, brother, sisters, extended family and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”