John Asthon, best known to the general public 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 deeply missed by all who knew him,” Somers said in a statement.

“John leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication and service. His memory will be forever cherished by his wife, children, grandchildren, as well as his brother, sisters, his extended family and all who loved him. John’s Impact the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come.”

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John Ashton played Detective Sergeant John Taggart in the “Beverly Hills Cop” film franchise. (Getty Images)

Ashton co-starred with Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold in the first two “Beverly Hills Cop” films as Detective Sergeant John Taggart.

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

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

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Born on February 22, 1948 in Springfield, Massachusetts and raised in Connecticut, Ashton attended Defiance College in Ohio before transferring to the University of Southern California, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in theater arts.

Ashton had a prolific career, starting with his first credited film role in the 1973 horror film ‘The Psychopath’. He went on to appear in many more films, often as a police officer or authority figure in films such as ‘Borderline’, ‘The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension’ and ‘Gone Baby Gone’.

His other works include such John Hughes films as “Some Kind of Wonderful” and “She’s Getting 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,” in which 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 an avid golfer and often took part in celebrity golf tournaments for various charities.

Ashton had almost 100 film and TV credits to his name. (Getty Images)

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“John was an avid reader and had many passions, including acting, golfing 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 skills and dedication were most clearly demonstrated. John dedicated his career to honing his craft and bringing characters to life on screen. His presence will be deeply missed,” the actor’s obituary said.

Ashton died at his Ft. Collins, Colorado home, and is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye, as well as 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.