One Of Fort Collins’ Most Famous Residents Has Died

Colorado is home to many celebrities, obviously... but it's rare to find a bonified movie star that lives here in Northern Colorado; in this case, specifically in Fort Collins.

With more than 50 years of acting credits to his name, his most recent came just this year as Chief John Taggart in Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.

That lovable cop character was brought to life in all of the Beverly Hills Cop movies by actor John Ashton. His family released a statement through his manager that he has passed away. Ashton is seen here with the cast of 2024's "Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F," seen second from the right.

What made him special to us around here - in addition to his antics with Eddie Murphy's "Axel Foley" character - was that he called Fort Collins home for a number of years. To be fair, I remember him living in Fort Collins at least 20 or so years ago, if not longer. Try as I might, there are no definitive sources on when exactly he left the awkwardness of Hollywood for the quiet, simple life we enjoy here, but I know he lived here a long, long time.

People all across social media have been paying tribute to the late actor, many of whom have served him around town, spoken with him or done business with him in some way, shape or form. The common thread is that everyone commented on how kind he was, and that he told great stories.

Ashton is survived by his wife of 24 years, Robin Hoye. He also had two children, three stepchildren, and a grandson. He was 76.