‘Beverly Hills Cop’ actor John Ashton dead at 76 after battle with cancer

“Beverly Hills Cop” star John Ashton has died. He was 76.

The actor passed away “peacefully” in Ft. Collins, Colo., on Thursday, Page Six confirms. TMZ reports he died after a battle with cancer.

“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service,” his rep Alan Somers told us in a statement.

John Ashton, seen here in June, has died at the age of 76. FilmMagic The actor’s rep told Page Six that he died “peacefully” in Ft. Collins, Colo., on Thursday. Getty Images

“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,” the statement continued.

“John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”

Ashton is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye.

“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service,” his rep said in a statement. CBS via Getty Images The “Beverly Hills Cop” star leaves behind two children, three stepchildren and a grandson. Getty Images He is also survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye. ©Netflix/Courtesy Everett Collection

He was the father of two children, Michelle Ashton and Michael Thomas Ashton, and three stepchildren. His grandson, Henry, “held a cherished place in his heart.”

He filmed over 200 movies during his 50 years in Hollywood and was well known for his role as Sergeant John Taggart in the 1984 movie “Beverly Hills Cop” with Eddie Murphy.

Ashton recently reprised his role in “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F,” which was released on Netflix in July.

Ashton is best known for his role in the 1984 movie “Beverly Hills Cop” with Eddie Murphy. WireImage He most recently starred in the 2024 reboot “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.” Variety via Getty Images

In June, he attended the film’s premiere at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, Calif.

The Massachusetts native also starred in the 1988 film “Midnight Run” alongside Robert De Niro and in John Hughes’ 1987 comedy, “Some Kind of Wonderful.” 

During a break from acting, he co-hosted the “Ashton and Davis Show” on ESPN Radio.