Beverly Hills Cop star John Ashton has died aged 76.
The Midnight Run actor died ‘peacefully’ in Colorado, US, following a battle with cancer.
‘John was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him,’ his rep said in a statement.
‘John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and service.
‘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.’
They added to Deadline: ‘John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.’
Ashton played Sergeant Taggart in Beverly Hills Cop in 1984, alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold.
He reprised his role for the sequel in 1987, and in the 2024 Netflix spin-off Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.
Speaking about the fame the role brought him, Ashton said earlier this year: ‘I walk down the street, and people go, “Hey Taggart! Hey Taggart!”
‘You know, when it first started happening, I got a little upset because I had done so many other things.
‘I said, “Well, you know, I’ve done more things than just Taggart.”
‘As the years have gone on, I kind of really enjoy it now.’
He added to Comic Book Resources: ‘There’s not too many actors that can put a stamp on a role that will be with them for eternity, so I take that as an honor now.’
Ashton also starred in 1999 film Avalanche, Little Big League in 1994 and Trapped in Paradise the same year alongside Nicolas Cage.
He is yet to appear in Hot Bath an’ a Stiff Drink 2 as Judge Nathan Rivers, according to his iMDB.
Ashton made various guest appearances in TV shows including Kojak, M*A*S*H, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, and Stasrky & Hutch.
He also held recurring roles as Willie Joe Garr in Dallas and played Charlie Battles in Hardball.