Beverly Hills Cop actor John Ashton died tragically at the age of 76.
Legend’s TV and film career spans an incredible 50 years, starring in major productions such as “Little Big League” and “Midnight Run.”
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John Ashton dies aged 76 Credit: AP
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J Reinhold, Ashton and Murphy in Beverly Hills Cop II 1987 Credit: Alamy
Ashton died “peacefully” of cancer at home on Thursday in Fort Collins, Colorado, his devastated family and representatives announced in a statement, TMZ reports.
The actor’s rep said: “John leaves behind a legacy of love, commitment and service.
“His memory will forever be cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and everyone who loved him.
“John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”
Ashton’s family has asked for donations to Pathways Hospice Care.
The actor was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and began his career after graduating from the University of Southern California’s theater school.
His first film role was Sgt. Matthews in the 1973 horror film The Psychopath.
After that he appeared in “Honky Tonk Freeway” and “The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension” – then landed his iconic role in the cop franchise in 1984.
In the “Beverly Hills Cop” series, Ashton played John Taggart and worked with an all-star cast including Eddie Murphy.
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His character was known for being an ordinary detective who acted like a sane compared to Murphy’s character Axel Foley.
Of the four film series, Ashton appeared in three.
In “Midnight Race” Ashton starred alongside Hollywood legend Robert DeNiro where he played the character of Marvin Dorfler – a bounty hunter who rivaled DeNiro’s character.
More recently, the star appeared in 2007’s “Gone Baby Gone” and the 2016 thriller “Uncle John” before reprising his role as Taggart in Beverly Hills Cop.
Outside of his acting career, Ashton was married to Victoria Marie Runn from 1968 until they divorced two years later.
In 1976, he married Bridget Baker-Ashton and the couple was married until 2001.
He had one child from both marriages.
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Clip from Beverly Hills Cop starring John Ashton and Eddie Murphy Credit: Paramount Pictures
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