You Won’t Believe What John Ashton Did After Midnight Run!

You Won’t Believe What John Ashton Did After Midnight Run!

John Ashton, an American actor known for his powerful screen presence, has left an indelible mark on Hollywood with iconic roles like Sergeant John Taggart in Beverly Hills Cop and Marvin Dorfler in Midnight Run. But his story doesn’t end there—Ashton’s career is filled with twists and turns that shaped him into a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Let’s dive into his fascinating journey, his personal life, and what made him a standout star, all while answering common questions like Who is John Ashton?, What is John Ashton’s age and height?, and What was his net worth?.

Who is John Ashton?

Born John David Ashton on February 22, 1948, in Springfield, Massachusetts, John Ashton grew up with a passion for acting. He pursued his education in theater and graduated from the prestigious University of Southern California School of Theatre. His love for the craft led him to start acting in the early ’70s, and he quickly earned small roles in TV shows like Columbo and Police Squad!. Ashton’s early career was modest, but it was clear that his talents would soon land him bigger opportunities​.

John Ashton’s Early Career and Breakthrough

Before making it big, John Ashton honed his skills in both television and film. Some of his early movie roles include An Eye for an Eye (1973) and Breaking Away (1979). In television, Ashton took on guest roles in shows such as Kojak and Barnaby Jones. These roles might not have made him a household name, but they built a foundation for the more significant achievements that were just around the corner.

John Ashton’s Age and Height

Ashton stood at an impressive height of 5’11” (180 cm), giving him a commanding presence in the roles he played. His strong physique and deep voice made him ideal for playing law enforcement characters, a genre he would come to define later in his career.

The Role That Changed Everything: Beverly Hills Cop

In 1984, John Ashton’s career took a major turn when he was cast as Sergeant John Taggart in Beverly Hills Cop. Paired with Judge Reinhold’s character, Billy Rosewood, Ashton portrayed the no-nonsense veteran cop with dry humor, which created a perfect contrast to Eddie Murphy’s exuberant Axel Foley. His performance was widely praised and became a defining moment of his career.

The success of the first film led Ashton to reprise his role in Beverly Hills Cop II (1987). While he didn’t appear in the third installment, his portrayal of Taggart remained a fan favorite for decades. Fans might recall him as the stern, yet hilarious cop who became a vital part of the Beverly Hills Cop franchise.

John Ashton’s Net Worth

Ashton’s success in Hollywood allowed him to build a comfortable life. Although exact figures vary, his net worth is estimated to be between $1 million and $5 million. His long career in both movies and television, as well as his involvement in various projects up until his passing, contributed to his financial success​(

Midnight Run and Beyond: What Happened After?

After playing Sergeant Taggart, Ashton shifted gears by taking on another memorable role: Marvin Dorfler in Midnight Run (1988), where he played a bounty hunter opposite Robert De Niro. The film was a hit, and Ashton’s chemistry with De Niro made the movie a standout in the action-comedy genre. Critics praised Ashton’s portrayal of the bumbling yet determined bounty hunter, and the movie went on to become a cult classic.

So, what did Ashton do after Midnight Run? While many actors may fade after two major successes, Ashton remained active and continued to appear in films and television for years. Some of his later work includes roles in Gone Baby Gone (2007), directed by Ben Affleck, and guest appearances in TV series such as Mr. Sunshine in 2011. Ashton’s ability to seamlessly blend into both dramatic and comedic roles allowed him to stay relevant well into the 2000s​(

John Ashton’s Family and Personal Life

John Ashton’s personal life was as complex as his on-screen characters. He married his first wife, Victoria Marie Runn, in 1968, though the couple divorced just two years later in 1970. He then married Bridget Baker-Ashton in 1976, but that marriage also ended in divorce in 2001. Ashton had two children, one from each of his marriages. Despite his divorces, Ashton remained a devoted father and cherished spending time with his family​ Ashton’s Spouse.

Though Ashton had two ex-wives, there are few public details about his romantic life after his second marriage. He maintained a private life, especially later in his career. Most of the information available focuses on his professional achievements and his relationship with his children.

John Ashton’s Later Life and Obituary

Ashton continued to act sporadically in both film and television during his later years. He lived in Fort Collins, Colorado, where he also co-hosted a radio show on 870 ESPN Radio. In September 2024, the world learned of Ashton’s passing at the age of 76. His death was confirmed by his manager, who shared that Ashton had died at his home in Fort Collins.

His passing was met with tributes from fans, co-stars, and members of the Hollywood community. Ashton left behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations, not only for his work in Beverly Hills Cop and Midnight Run but also for his long-standing contributions to film and television.

John Ashton’s Movies: A Lasting Legacy

With a career spanning over four decades, John Ashton appeared in more than 30 films and numerous TV shows. Some of his other notable works include:

• King Kong Lives (1986)
• Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
• Instinct (1999)
• The Shooter (1995)
• Little Big League (1994)

Though he may not have been the lead in most of his projects, Ashton’s performances were often scene-stealers. His ability to bring depth to secondary characters helped make many of these films unforgettable.

John Taggart and John Ashton: Forever Linked

For fans of Beverly Hills Cop, John Ashton will always be remembered as John Taggart. His portrayal of the gruff, yet lovable cop was a key component of the franchise’s success. And while his role in Midnight Run showcased his versatility as an actor, it is Taggart that fans often associate with him. In fact, Ashton’s recent return to the role in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F in 2024 brought back waves of nostalgia for fans who grew up watching the series​.

Conclusion: Remembering John Ashton

John Ashton’s career was marked by memorable roles, unique characters, and a lasting impact on Hollywood. From his breakout role in Beverly Hills Cop to his unforgettable turn in Midnight Run, Ashton proved time and again that he was a talented actor capable of bringing humor, heart, and depth to the screen.

Though he is no longer with us, John Ashton’s legacy will live on through his films, TV shows, and the many fans who admired his work. Whether you know him as John Taggart, Marvin Dorfler, or from his many other roles, there’s no denying that Ashton was a true Hollywood talent.

FAQs About John Ashton

1. Who is John Ashton?
John Ashton was an American actor best known for his roles in Beverly Hills Cop as Sergeant John Taggart and Midnight Run as bounty hunter Marvin Dorfler. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, in 1948, Ashton enjoyed a successful career spanning several decades.

2. What is John Ashton’s age?
John Ashton was born on February 22, 1948. He passed away in September 2024 at the age of 76.

3. What is John Ashton’s height?
John Ashton stood at 5’11” (180 cm), a height that complemented his roles as authoritative and tough characters, particularly in law enforcement.

4. What is John Ashton’s net worth?
John Ashton’s estimated net worth ranged between $1 million and $5 million, earned through his long career in films and television.

5. What are some of John Ashton’s famous movies?
John Ashton gained widespread recognition for his standout performances in:

• Beverly Hills Cop (1984)
• Beverly Hills Cop II (1987)
• Midnight Run (1988)
• Gone Baby Gone (2007) He also appeared in Some Kind of Wonderful and Instinct​.

6. Who was John Ashton’s spouse?
John Ashton was married twice. His first wife was Victoria Marie Runn (1968–1970), and his second wife was Bridget Baker-Ashton (1976–2001). He had children from both marriages.

7. What is John Ashton’s connection to Beverly Hills Cop?
John Ashton played the role of Sergeant John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop franchise. He appeared in the first two films, released in 1984 and 1987, and recently reprised his role in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024).

8. When did John Ashton pass away?
John Ashton passed away in September 2024 at the age of 76 at his home in Fort Collins, Colorado. His death was confirmed by his manager.

9. What was John Ashton’s role in Midnight Run?
In Midnight Run (1988), John Ashton played Marvin Dorfler, a bounty hunter who competes with Robert De Niro’s character.His portrayal received critical acclaim and played a significant role in the film’s overall success.

10. What is John Ashton’s legacy in Hollywood?
John Ashton is remembered for his roles in action-comedies, particularly for his work in Beverly Hills Cop and Midnight Run. He had a career spanning over four decades, and his performances continue to be appreciated by fans and critics alike.