Beverly Hills Cop

Beverly Hills Cop Stars: A Tribute to John Ashton – Where There's No Smoking!

The beloved Beverly Hills Cop star John Ashton has passed away at 76. Grab your popcorn as we dive into his comedic legacy and a heartfelt tribute from Judge Reinhold!

John Ashton, the beloved actor known for his portrayal of Sgt. John Taggart in the iconic “Beverly Hills Cop” franchise, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. Ashton’s family announced that he died peacefully in his home in Fort Collins, Colorado, on September 26. His representative, Alan Somers, shared that John had a career spanning five decades, during which he graced nearly 100 movies and TV shows, delighting audiences with his incredible comedic timing and memorable performances.

Ashton was often best remembered for his chemistry with Judge Reinhold, who co-starred with him in the Beverly Hills Cop films. Reinhold fondly recalled their partnership by saying, “There’s no smoking in heaven, John!”, highlighting not just their camaraderie on screen, but also the deep bond they shared off-screen. Their roles as the ‘by-the-book’ police partners Taggart and Rosewood provided a perfect foil to Eddie Murphy’s outlandish antics, making the films a staple in American cinema during the 1980s and beyond.

Throughout his illustrious career, Ashton’s talent shone in not just action-comedies but also dramas and thrillers, including his standout role in the film “Midnight Run.” He brought a unique charm and grit to every character he portrayed, which earned him a dedicated following. Fans will always remember his ability to seamlessly blend humor with authenticity, whether he was defusing dangerous situations or delivering comic relief.

As we remember John Ashton, it’s also a time to celebrate some fascinating trivia about the Beverly Hills Cop films. Did you know that the original script was actually intended for a more serious film, not a comedy? However, thanks to Eddie Murphy's charismatic improvisation, the movie turned into the hilarious classic we know today. Additionally, the film’s success paved the way for a sequel, making it one of the highest-grossing films of its time and cementing a legacy that would last for decades!