“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.
“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.
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.
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.
