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John Ashton

Personal Info

Known For

Acting

Birthdate

1948-02-22

Day of Death

2024-09-26

Place of Birth

Springfield, Massachusetts, USA

John Ashton

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 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.

Filmography (51)

⭐ 5.4 Role: Roy Landry

All Happy Families

2024
⭐ 6.7 Role: Chief John Taggart

Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F

2024
⭐ 6.0 Role: Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

BRATS

2024
⭐ 5.7 Role: Macroberts

Lonesome Soldier

2023
⭐ 4.3 Role: Asher

Death in Texas

2022
⭐ 3.8 Role: Rob

American Christmas

2019
⭐ 0 Role: FBI Director

Making a Deal with the Devil

2019
⭐ 5.8 Role: Joseph Bird Sr.

The Last Big Save

2019
⭐ 6.5 Role: Unknown

Once Upon a River

2019
⭐ 5.8 Role: Joseph Rogers

The Joke Thief

2018
⭐ 5.8 Role: Uncle John

Uncle John

2015
⭐ 5.8 Role: Mike Donahue

A Letter to Dad

2009
⭐ 6.5 Role: Morgan

Middle Men

2009
⭐ 7.3 Role: Nick Poole

Gone Baby Gone

2007
⭐ 5.9 Role: Commander Latham

Reign of the Gargoyles

2007