‘Beverly Hills Cop’ Star Passes Away At 78

John David Ashton, the “Beverly Hills Cop” star who starred in three of the franchise’s four films, died peacefully last week. He was 78.

News of the actor’s death was confirmed by the Daily Caller via a statement from Alan Somers, Ashton’s longtime representative, who said he died peacefully in his Fort Collins, Colorado, home after a battle with cancer. “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service,” Somers said. “His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”

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For five decades, Ashton was a prolific presence in Hollywood, starring or making cameos in more than 200 films including the first three of the “Beverly Hills Cop” series. Viewers will remember his character Detective Sergeant John Taggart, the pugnacious patrolman opposite Eddie Murphy. Beginning in 1984, Ashton assumed the position and 40 years later was still playing a role, appearing in Netflix’s “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” released in 2024. He continued contributing to the entertainment world as a host on “Ashton and Davis Show” on 870 ESPN Radio.

In addition to his contributions to the comedy franchise, Aston took notable roles in “M*A*S*H” and the 1988 Robert De Niro Film “Midnight Run.” Other movie roles noted by the caller include “An Eye for an Eye,” “So Evil, My Sister,” “Breaking Away,” “Borderline,” “Honky Tonk Freeway,” “Little Big League,” “Trapped in Paradise,” “In the Living Years,” “Fast Money,” “Hidden Assassin,” “Instinct,” “Middle Men” and “Uncle John.” On TV, Ashton is credited with appearances in “Columbo,” “Police Story,” “Burnaby Jones,” “M*A*S*H,” “Starsky and Hutch,” “Dallas,” “The A-Team,” “EastEnders,” “Fantasy Island” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.”

Ashton is survived by his wife Robin Hoye ​and two adult children, all of whom asked that donations in their loved one’s memory be sent to Pathways Hospice Care. On his own website, the Springfield, Massachusetts native wrote about his love for travel, golf, and family. “This year is going by way too fast. I’ve been busy and that’s great! Spent some quality time in Florida in the winter with my family, sister, daughter, cousins, friends and lots of golf. Got back home and was asked to go right back for a film in Orlando, ” My Little Baby “. Filmed it on my birthday. How cool is that? Doing what you love on your birthday!” he wrote in his final entry, dated August 18th, 2017.

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