John Ashton
Actor
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
Gone Baby Gone
as Det. Nick Poole 2007
Beverly Hills Cop II
as John Taggart 1987
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F
as Chief John Taggart 2024
Midnight Run
as Marvin Dorfler, Headhunter 1988
Instinct
as Guard Dacks 1999
Curly Sue
as Frank Arnold 1991
Some Kind of Wonderful
as Cliff Nelson 1987
The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension
as Highway Patrolman 1984
Middle Men
as Morgan 2009
Breaking Away
as Mike's Brother 1979
Trapped in Paradise
as Ed Dawson 1994
King Kong Lives
as Lt. Col. R.T. Nevitt 1986
She's Having a Baby
as Ken 1988
Oh, God!
as Police Officer (uncredited) 1977
Little Big League
as Mac MacNally 1994
Meet the Deedles
as Capt. Douglas Pine 1998