Veteran character actor John Ashton who rose to fame as the tough but lovable police detective John Taggart in the popular Beverly Hills Cop film series has sadly passed away at the age of 76.

Ashton’s family announced the beloved actor passed away on Thursday, September 26 in Colorado. Ashton’s manager, Alan Somers, released a statement on behalf of his family in which they reflected on his “legacy of love, dedication, and service”.

“John was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him,” the statement read, as per Deadline.

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

No cause of death was provided.

Born February 22, 1948, Ashton first came to the attention of audiences with roles in popular television series such as Dallas and Columbo before securing roles in films such as An Eye for an Eye (1973), Breaking Away (1979), Borderline (1980), Last Resort (1986) and King Kong Lives (1986).

However, it was his role as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the popular Beverly Hills Cop series alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold that brought him greater fame.

In 1988, he co-starred in the action-comedy Midnight Run alongside Robert De Niro before enjoying further success with roles in Little Big League, Trapped in Paradise, The Shooter, Meet the Deedles, Instinct, and in the 2007 drama Gone Baby Gone directed by Ben Affleck.

Most recently he reprised his role of Taggart in 2024’s Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.

News of Ashton’s passing triggered an overwhelming response from fans who took to social media to offer their tributes and honour his legacy.

Ashton is survived by his wife, Robin Hoye, his two children, three stepchildren, a grandson, two sisters and a brother.

-with AP.