The year 2024 has been a massive one for losses for the entertainment industry, and you can add the name of John Ashton to the list. There does not seem to be an end to these losses in sight. Ashton, who had a celebrated 50-year career, died last Thursday at 76 years old. Ashton was best known for his role as John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cops movies. He died in Fort Collins, Colo., after a long battle with cancer. Fans’ hearts were broken worldwide as news of Ashton’s death spread.
John Ashton and His Legacy
John Ashton was born on Feb. 22, 1948, in Springfield, Mass. Ashton played Taggart in the three Beverly Hills Cop movies. The first movie was released in 1984 and the second in 1987. Ashton worked alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold on screen. He came back to the role in another Beverly Hills Cop movie in 2024, where his character had become chief of police. Ashton initially got his start on TV shows like Kojak, An Eye for an Eye, and Emergency! in the early 1970s. Ashton even appeared in Wonder Woman in 1977 as a Nazi henchman.
John Ashton performed in 95 different films and TV shows, including Lonesome Soldier, Death in Texas, My Little Baby, The Neighborhood, Law and Order: Special Victims Unit, Going to California, Starsky and Hutch, King of the Hill, and Some Kind of Wonderful, among many others. Fans might remember when he played a rival bounty hunter to Robert De Niro in Midnight Run (1988). If you include stage appearances, then John Ashton appeared in over 200 productions. A truly admirable person who was dedicated to his craft, family, and friends.
Reactions and Remembrances
A statement from the Independent said, “John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service. His memory will forever be treasured by his wife, children, and grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, extended family, and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Ashton is survived by Michelle Ashton, Michael Thomas Ashton, and stepchildren Courtney Donovan, Lindsay (Brandon) Curcio, and Ashley Hoye. Losing another legend such as John Ashton has broken many hearts; however, his legacy will live on amongst fans and audiences forever, uplifting their spirits with his lifelong dedication to performing.
Final Thoughts
When an actor, actress, or overall performer is lost to the public, it is much like losing a close friend you used to hang out with a long time ago. Many fans probably feel the same way. The career of John Ashton not only spanned over 50 years but more than 200 productions All those affected by Ashton’s death will look to keep his legacy alive.
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