
John Ashton
- Date of Birth: 1948-02-22
- Date of Death: 2024-09-26
- Place of Birth: Springfield, Massachusetts, USA
Biography
John David Ashton (February 22, 1948 – September 26, 2024) was an American actor best known for his role as Sergeant John Taggart in the hit action-comedy films Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Beverly Hi... John David Ashton (February 22, 1948 – September 26, 2024) was an American actor best known for his role as Sergeant John Taggart in the hit action-comedy films Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Beverly Hills Cop II (1987) and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2025) where he played alongside Eddie Murphy. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Ashton developed a passion for acting early in life, later attending the University of Southern California's School of Theatre. Beyond his iconic role in the Beverly Hills Cop series, Ashton appeared in a wide range of films and TV shows throughout his career. His notable film appearances include Midnight Run (1988) alongside Robert De Niro, where he portrayed a bounty hunter named Marvin Dorfler. On television, Ashton has made guest appearances on popular series such as Columbo, MASH, and The A-Team. Ashton's performances are often characterized by his ability to balance humor and toughness, making him a beloved character actor, especially in roles that highlight his everyman charm and strong screen presence.

Curly Sue
Comedy, Drama, Family, Romance • 1991 October

Police Woman
Action & Adventure, Crime, Drama • 1974 September

The Deliberate Stranger
Drama, Crime, Thriller, Horror, TV Movie • 1986 May

For Which He Stands
Thriller • 1996 May

Once Upon a River
Drama • 2019 May

BRATS
Documentary • 2024 June

The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension
Science Fiction, Comedy, Adventure, Romance • 1984 August

She's Having a Baby
Comedy, Drama, Romance • 1988 February

Reign of the Gargoyles
Action, Adventure, Fantasy • 2007 March

Uncle John
Mystery, Drama, Crime • 2015 March