Fans of the "Beverly Hills Cop" franchise had reason to celebrate this year when its latest installment was released via Netflix.

However, those same fans were left mourning after one of the film's stars passed away last week at the age of 76. 

John Asthon hailed as "a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather"

According to Fox News, Hollywood manager Alan Somers confirmed to Fox News that actor John Asthon died at his home in Ft. Collins, Colorado.

"John was a loving husband, brother, father, and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him," Somers was quoted in a statement provided to Fox News.

"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," Somers declared.

"John's impact on the world will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come," the Hollywood manager went on to add.

A career that spanned five decades

Fox News noted that while he was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Asthon was raised in Connecticut before going on to attend Defiance College and the University of Southern California.

Ashton's acting career began five decades ago and included appearances in such films as "Some Kind of Wonderful," "She's Having a Baby," and "Curly Sue."

However, his most famous role came in 1984 when he played Detective Sergeant John Taggart in "Beverly Hills Cop," role he reprised for its sequels.

In addition to acting in movies, Asthon turned up on various television shows as well, including "Columbo," "Wonder Woman," "MASH," "Starsky & Hutch," "Dallas," and "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit."

Fox News recalled how in addition to his passion for acting, Ashton was also an avid golfer who frequently participated in charity tournaments.

Tributes appear on social media

News of Asthon's passing quickly was quickly followed by tributes to him on social media, including from actor and director Robert Benn.

Today is a sad day in the entrainment world to hear the passing of actor #JohnAshton one of the best in the business to have ever done it the role of Detective John Taggart can only be played by one person. John Ashton made that role possible. Rest in heaven, buddy. pic.twitter.com/n4ek9Xw1fl

— Actor Robert Benn (@Benn1Actor) September 29, 2024

"Today is a sad day in the entrainment world to hear the passing of actor [John Ashton] one of the best in the business to have ever done it the role of Detective John Taggart can only be played by one person," Benn wrote before adding, "John Ashton made that role possible. Rest in heaven, buddy."