John Ashton, ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ actor, dies at 76

John Ashton, the Character actor who starred alongside Eddie Murphy in the film Beverly Hills police officer series, has died at the age of 76.

The actor’s rep confirmed his death to TMZ, adding that Ashton died Thursday in Fort Collins, Colorado, after a battle with cancer.

Ashton was best known for portraying Sgt. John Taggart alongside Eddie Murphy’s Axel Foley and Judge Reinhold’s Det. Billy Rosewood in three of the four Beverly Hills police officer Films: Original from 1984, sequel from 1987 Beverly Hills Cop IIand this year Beverly Hills cop: Axel Fwhere his Taggart was named LAPD chief.

Ashton’s other notable roles include playing Eric Stoltz’s father in the John Hughes-penned teen romantic comedy Somehow wonderfulBounty hunter Marvin Dorfler in the 1988 cult action comedy “Midnight Run,” pitching coach in the 1994s Little big leagueand a Boston detective in Ben Affleck’s 2007 neo-noir Gone, baby gone.

Throughout his acting career, which began in the early 1970s, Ashton also appeared in episodes of MASH, Starsky & Hutch, Dallas, Law & Order: Special Victims Unitand the revival of The twilight zone.

“John leaves a legacy of love, dedication and service,” Ashton’s representative Alan Somers said in a statement. “His memory will forever be cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, brother, sisters, extended family and all who loved him. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”