OR
wikimedia.org
22 Feb, 1948
26 Sep, 2024
Cancer
American
Actor
76
John David Ashton was born on February 22, 1948, in Springfield, Massachusetts. Growing up in a working-class American family, Ashton developed a passion for acting at a young age. He attended Enfield High School in Enfield, Connecticut, where he likely first explored his interest in the performing arts. Following high school, Ashton furthered his acting career through higher education. Defiance College in Ohio was his first college; he then transferred to the University of Southern California School of Theatre. His education gave him a strong base in acting, setting him up for a variety of roles later in his career.
Ashton started acting in the early 1970s, taking on small parts in TV shows and movies. His breakthrough came in 1984 when he was cast as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the blockbuster hit “Beverly Hills Cop” alongside Eddie Murphy. Ashton’s career would be largely defined by this role, bringing him widespread fame.
Throughout his five-decade career, Ashton appeared in nearly 100 movies and numerous television shows. He reprised his role as Taggart in “Beverly Hills Cop II” (1987) and returned for the franchise’s latest installment, “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” (2024), one of his final on-screen appearances. Beyond the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, Ashton delivered memorable performances in films such as “Midnight Run” (1988), where he played a rival bounty hunter to Robert De Niro’s character. He also appeared in “Some Kind of Wonderful” (1987), “Gone Baby Gone” (2007), and “Little Big League” (1994).
Ashton’s personal life saw its share of ups and downs. He was married twice, first to Victoria Marie Runn from 1968 to 1970, with whom he had a daughter. In 1976, he married Bridget Baker-Ashton, and they had a child together before divorcing in 2001. Later in life, Ashton found lasting companionship with Robin Hoye, whom he was married to for 24 years until his passing. Together, they raised a blended family that included Ashton’s two children and three stepchildren.
John Ashton’s contribution to cinema, particularly in the action-comedy genre, is significant. His portrayal of the gruff but lovable Detective Taggart in the “Beverly Hills Cop” series helped create one of the most memorable police duos in film history, alongside Judge Reinhold’s Detective Rosewood. Ashton’s ability to balance toughness with humor made him a beloved character actor. His performances often highlighted his everyman charm and strong screen presence, making him a reliable supporting player in both comedic and dramatic roles.
On September 26, 2024, John Ashton passed away peacefully at the age of 76 in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a battle with cancer. His death marked the end of an era for fans of 1980s cinema and the “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise. Ashton’s legacy extends beyond his on-screen performances. He was known for his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring characters to life. His family remembers him not just as an actor, but as a loving husband, father, and grandfather who took great pride in his family. As the entertainment world mourns the loss of this versatile actor, John Ashton’s work continues to entertain audiences, ensuring that his impact on film and television will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.
John David Ashton
John Ashton
Male
Cancer
Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
Logistician Practical and fact-minded individuals, whose reliability cannot be doubted. He was reliable, practical, and duty-driven.
Ashton reprised his role as Taggart in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F just months before his death.
He appeared in an episode of MASH* in 1977.
He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Southern California.
His nickname was "Jodad".
Appeared in critically acclaimed films like Midnight Run.
Contributed to over 200 film and TV projects throughout his career.
Known for his iconic role in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise.