“Beverly Hills Cop” actor was 76

John Ashton, the actor known for his role as Sgt. John Taggart in Beverly Hills police officer Films, died. He was 76.

After a battle with cancer, a representative for Ashton tells Deadline that the Somehow wonderful The actor died “peacefully” Thursday in Ft. Collins, Colo.

“John was a loving husband, brother, father and grandfather who will be sadly missed by all who knew him,” the spokesperson said in a statement.

“John leaves a legacy of love, dedication and service. His memory will forever be remembered 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.”

Based on the first portrayal by Sgt. Taggart in the 1984s Beverly Hills police officer With Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold, Ashton returned for the 1987 sequel and most recently reprized the role for Netflix Beverly Hills cop: Axel F.

In addition, Ashton appeared in films such as Somehow wonderful (1987), Midnight run (1988), Curly Sue (1991), Little big league (1994), Gone, baby gone (2007), Middle men (2009) and Once upon a time there was a river (2019). His TV appearances include episodes of Columbo, Wonder Woman, MASH, Starsky & Hutch, Dallas, The A Team, The twilight zone, Judging Amy And Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.

Ashton was born on February 22, 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts and grew up in Enfield, Connecticut. He attended Defiance College in Ohio before transferring to the University of Southern California, where he received a BA in Theater Studies.

In addition to acting, Ashton was also an avid golfer who used his talent for various purposes at prominent golf tournaments around the world.

Ashton is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye, as well as his Michelle Ashton and Michael Thomas Ashton, his stepchildren Courtney Donovan, Lindsay Curcio and Ashley Hoye, and his grandson Henry.