John Ashton
Biography
John David Ashton (February 22, 1948 – September 26, 2024) was an American actor best known for his role as Sergeant John Taggart in the hit action-comedy films Beverly Hills Cop (1984), Beverly Hills Cop II (1987) and Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2025) where he played alongside Eddie Murphy. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Ashton developed a passion for acting early in life, later attending the University of Southern California's School of Theatre.
Beyond his iconic role in the Beverly Hills Cop series, Ashton appeared in a wide range of films and TV shows throughout his career. His notable film appearances include Midnight Run (1988) alongside Robert De Niro, where he portrayed a bounty hunter named Marvin Dorfler. On television, Ashton has made guest appearances on popular series such as Columbo, MASH, and The A-Team.
Ashton's performances are often characterized by his ability to balance humor and toughness, making him a beloved character actor, especially in roles that highlight his everyman charm and strong screen presence.
Filmography
All Happy Families
2024
as Roy Landry
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
2024
as Chief John Taggart
BRATS
2024
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
Lonesome Soldier
2023
as Macroberts
Death in Texas
2022
as Asher
American Christmas
2019
as Rob
Making a Deal with the Devil
2019
as FBI Director
The Last Big Save
2019
as Joseph Bird Sr.
Once Upon a River
2019
The Joke Thief
2018
as Joseph Rogers
Uncle John
2015
as Uncle John
A Letter to Dad
2009
as Mike Donahue
Middle Men
2009
as Morgan
Gone Baby Gone
2007
as Nick Poole
Reign of the Gargoyles
2007
as Commander Latham
Bill's Gun Shop
2001
as Bill Voight
Escape from Alaska
1999
as Kemp
Instinct
1999
as Guard Dacks
The Day Lincoln Was Shot
1998
as Ulysses S. Grant
Meet the Deedles
1998
as Capt. Douglas Pine
Little Girls in Pretty Boxes
1997
as Peter Bryant
Fast Money
1996
as Lt. Diego
For Which He Stands
1996
as District Attorney
The Shooter
1995
as Alex Reed