John Ashton has ed away. Ashton was a actor who played Sergeant John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise and recently reprised his role in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise, and Axel F proved to be one of his final roles.

According to a report by Variety, the actor tragically died at 76 years old on Thursday, September 26, in Colorado. His manager, Alan Somers, confirmed his death, telling TMZ that Ashton ed peacefully after a fight with cancer. Somers' full statement reflects Ashton's lasting legacy:

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

John Ashton Leaves A Powerful Legacy In Hollywood

Ashton Has Had A Long & Memorable Career

Ashton's legacy is most prevalent in his performance in Beverly Hills Cop. Alongside Eddie Murphy and Judge Reinhold, he starred as the straight man John Taggart. The movie was nominated for Best Original Screenplay at the Academy Awards and received two nominations at the Golden Globe Awards. It brought in a $234 million total at the box office on a budget of just $13 million. The movie was such a success that three follow-ups were made. Unfortunately, Taggart did not appear in Beverly Hills Cop 3 due to scheduling conflicts. His absence contributed to its disappointing reception.

Ashton appeared in over 200 productions throughout his life.

Beverly Hills is not where his career began and ended, however. He appeared in prominent roles in the movies Midnight Run (1988), King Kong Lives (1986), and Hidden Assassin (1995). On the small screen, he appeared in Dallas, M*A*S*H, King of the Hill, Hardball, and The Day Lincoln Was Shot, alongside numerous more. In the coming years, he is still expected to appear in Hot Bath an' a Stiff Drink 2 and Hot Bath, Stiff Drink, an' a Close Shave. Both movies are either completed or in post-production, so his final works should see few changes.

Ashton's Long Career Enhances His Memory

Beverly Hills Cop 5 Will Need To Honor Ashton

After the development of Axel F, producer Jerry Bruckheimer and Eddie Murphy revealed that Beverly Hills Cop 5 is in development, though Netflix has not officially confirmed its approval. If the movie ever does get made, it should address Ashton's legacy in the franchise. He was a key piece that made it so beloved, and he continued to appear in follow-ups throughout his life. Co-stars in his other projects will also likely work to honor his memory however they can. John Ashton left his mark on Hollywood and will always be ed for his influence on the industry today.

Source: Variety & TMZ