A Farewell to Beverly Hills Cop Veteran #
Ashton, who left his mark in the first two films in the series, has died at the age of 76.
The actor’s death was confirmed by his manager, Alan Somers, who announced that Ashton died on Thursday in Fort Collins, Colorado. The cause of his death was not immediately revealed, leaving the film community waiting for more details.
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A diverse and rich career #
Aside from his iconic role in Beverly Hills Cop, John Ashton has starred in a multitude of films and television series throughout his career, which spans more than half a century. Some of his notable works include films such as ‘An Eye for an Eye’ in 1973 and ‘Gone Baby Gone’ in 2007. Ashton also made his mark on the small screen with appearances in famous series like ‘Columbo’ and ‘MASH ‘.
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Recently, he had reprized his role as John Taggart, promoted to police chief, in the 2024 film, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F. This is a testament to the longevity and persistence of his talent in the film industry.
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A busy life #
John David Ashton was born February 22, 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts, and raised in Enfield, Connecticut. After attending Enfield High School, he enrolled at Defiance College and then transferred to the University of Southern California, where he earned a BA in Theater Arts.
Ashton leaves behind a family who loved him deeply, including his sisters Sharon Ann Ashton and Linda Jean Ashton, as well as his brother Edward Richard Ashton Jr. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward Richard Ashton Sr. and Eva May Ashton.
- Born: February 22, 1948, Springfield, Massachusetts
- Death: September 29, 2024, Fort Collins, Colorado
- Films notables : Beverly Hills Cop, Gone Baby Gone
- Notable series: Columbo, MASH
A ceremony honoring his life will be held at a later date. The family has requested that donations be made in John’s memory to Pathways Hospice Care in Fort Collins. John Ashton, with his imposing presence and undeniable talent, will be remembered as an icon of the modern cinema era.
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