John Asthon, best known to many viewers for his work in the “Beverly Hills Cop” films, has died at the age of 76.

His manager Alan Somers confirmed Ashton’s death to Fox News Digital.

“John was a loving husband, brother, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed by all who knew him,” Somers said in a statement.

“John leaves a legacy of love, dedication and service. His wife, children, grandchildren, brother, sisters, extended family and all who loved him will forever be remembered. John’s impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”

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John Ashton portrayed Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop film series. (Getty Images)

Ashton played Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the first two Beverly Hills Cop films alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold.

He returned for the fourth film, 2024’s Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, and was promoted to police chief for his character. The film, released on Netflix in July, was his last completed project.

Ashton appeared as Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the first two Beverly Hills Cop films alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold. (CBS via Getty Images)

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Ashton was born on February 22, 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts and grew up in Connecticut. He attended Defiance College in Ohio before transferring to the University of Southern California, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in theater.

Ashton had a prolific career that began with his first credited film role in the 1973 horror film The Psychopath. He then appeared in many more films, often as a police officer or authority figure in films such as Borderline, The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai in the 8th Dimension and Gone Baby Gone.

His other credits include John Hughes films such as Some Kind of Wonderful, She’s Taking a Baby and Curly Sue, as well as roles in Midnight Run with Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin.

Ashton reprized his role for 2024’s Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, where his character was a police chief. (Getty Images)

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On television, Ashton has appeared in dozens of shows, including “Columbo,” “Wonder Woman,” “MASH,” “Starsky & Hutch,” “Dallas” and “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit.”

In addition to acting, Ashton was also an avid golfer and often participated in celebrity golf tournaments for various charities.

Ashton has had almost 100 film and television appearances to his credit. (Getty Images)

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“John was an avid reader and had many passions, including acting, golf and watching his favorite teams – the NY Yankees and NY Giants. However, it was his work as an actor/entertainer in theater, film and television where his skill and commitment were most clearly demonstrated that John has dedicated his career to honing his craft and bringing characters to life on screen.” says the actor’s obituary.

Ashton died at his Ft. He lives in Collins, Colorado, and is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye, his children Michelle Ashton and Michael Thomas Ashton, his stepchildren Courtney Donovan, Lindsay Curcio and Ashley Hoye, and his grandson Henry. He also leaves behind his sisters and brother.