Ctrl+K
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.
as Roy Landry
as Chief John Taggart
as Self (archive footage) (uncredited)
as Macroberts
as Asher
as Rob
as FBI Director
as Joseph Bird Sr.
as Joseph Rogers
as Uncle John
as Mike Donahue
as Morgan
as Nick Poole
as Commander Latham
as Bill Voight
as Kemp
as Guard Dacks
as Ulysses S. Grant
as Capt. Douglas Pine
as Peter Bryant
as Lt. Diego
as District Attorney
as Alex Reed
as Deputy Warden
as Ed Dawson
as Mac MacNally
as Eddie Ryan
as Frank Arnold (uncredited)
as Harry Dempsey
as Marvin Dorfler
as Ken
as John Taggart
as Cliff Nelson
as Lt. Col. R.T. Nevitt
as Det. Roger Dunn
as Phil Cocoran
as Sgt. Taggart
as Highway Patrolman
as Cash Hunt
as Otto Kemper
as Jake
as Charlie Monroe
as 1st State Trooper
as Mike's Brother
as Orville
as Police Officer (uncredited)
as Coach Larkin
as Sergeant
as Brock
as Sgt. Matthews
as Judge Nathan Rivers
