John Ashton, the beloved American actor best known for his memorable roles in iconic films of the 1980s and 1990s, passed away at the age of 76. In a career that spanned more than 50 years, Ashton captivated audiences with his distinctive blend of toughness and humor, making a lasting impact on both film and television.
Ashton gained widespread recognition for his role as Sergeant John Taggart in the Beverly Hills Cop series, where he starred alongside Eddie Murphy. His dynamic performance, marked by a perfect balance of comedy and authority, helped define a generation of action-comedy films. He also left an indelible mark in Midnight Run as Marvin Dorfler, a rival bounty hunter, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile character actor.
In a recent interview with Collider, Ashton recalled auditioning with Robert De Niro for Midnight Run, the classic road film that filmed significant scenes in Chicago:
“Bobby started handing me these matches, and I went to grab the matches, and he threw them on the floor and stared at me,” said Ashton. “I looked at the matches, and I looked up, and I said, ‘F—- you,’ and he said, ‘F—- you, too.’ I said, ‘Go —- yourself.’ I know every other actor picked those up and handed it to him, and I found out as soon as I left he went, ‘I want him,’ because he wanted somebody to stand up to him.”
His connections to Chicago filmmaking are notable, particularly through his roles in films produced or directed by John Hughes, a key figure in the Chicago film scene. Ashton played a supportive father in Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) and made appearances in She’s Having a Baby (1988) and Curly Sue (1991), which showcased the beauty and culture of Chicago and its suburbs.
Here’s a summary of John Ashton’s connection to Chicago films:
Some Kind of Wonderful (1987) – While not shot in Chicago, it was this film that introduced John Ashton to Chicago-native John Hughes, who often set his films in and around the city. In this romantic drama directed by Howard Deutch and produced by John Hughes, Ashton plays Cliff Nelson, the father of the main character, Keith Nelson (played by Eric Stoltz). Cliff is a supportive and understanding father who encourages his son to pursue his dreams, providing a contrast to the more traditional, overprotective father archetype.
She’s Having a Baby (1988) – Filmed entirely in Chicago, in this John Hughes film, Ashton portrays neighbor Ken, a family friend. The movie follows a young couple, Jake and Kristy (played by Kevin Bacon and Elizabeth McGovern), as they navigate the challenges of impending parenthood. Ashton’s role, while not central, adds to the comedic and heartfelt moments of the film.
Midnight Run (1988) – This classic road film includes Chicago as was one of the many locations the characters traveled to during the film’s cross-country journey. Ashton played Marvin Dorfler, a bounty hunter in this action-comedy starring Robert De Niro and Charles Grodin. Marvin is a somewhat comedic and antagonistic figure who adds tension and humor to the film as he tries to capture the same target as rival bounty hunter Robert De Niro’s character, Jack Walsh, leading to various encounters and confrontations.
TRIVIA: Ben Affleck cast John Ashton in Gone, Baby Gone because of how much he loved him in… Midnight Run.
Curly Sue (1991) – Filmed entirely in Chicago, in this family comedy directed by John Hughes, Ashton plays Frank Arnold, a character who gets involved with a young con artist girl and her guardian. The film focuses on themes of love, family, and friendship.
Normal Life (1996) – Directed by John McNaughton, this crime drama was filmed in various locations around Chicago and its suburbs. Ashton plays Frank Anderson, a key character in this crime drama that is based on a true story about a couple involved in a life of crime. Ashton’s role as a father figure explores themes of family dynamics and the consequences of criminal behavior.
Uncle Nino (2003) – In this family-friendly comedy, Ashton portrays Bobby Micelli, a member of a family dealing with cultural differences and generational gaps. The film follows the arrival of Uncle Nino from Italy and how his presence affects the family dynamics.
Little Big League (1994) – While much of the film’s action takes place in Minnesota, the Chicago filming locations included Wrigley Field and scenes shot in and around downtown Chicago, showcasing the city’s skyline. Ashton appears as Bill Haywood, the father of the main character, a young boy who inherits the Minnesota Twins baseball team. Ashton’s role is that of a supportive father navigating the complexities of his son’s newfound responsibilities and challenges.
All Happy Families (2023) – This Chicago-made film premiered in Chicago last year at the 59th Chicago International Film Festival. In this family drama directed by Haroula Rose, Ashton plays Bill McCune, the patriarch of the McCune family. The film explores family dynamics during a birthday reunion, with Ashton’s character navigating tensions and emotional struggles within the family.
Throughout these films, John Ashton has showcased his versatility as an actor, taking on various roles that often emphasize family dynamics, humor, and heartfelt moments. His characters range from supportive fathers to comedic antagonists, contributing to the overall narrative in significant ways.
He was not only a talented actor but also a cherished figure in the film industry, known for his warm spirit and generosity toward colleagues and fans alike. Ashton is survived by his wife, Robin Hoye, of 24 years, two children, three stepchildren, a grandson, two sisters and a brother.
As we remember John Ashton, we celebrate his remarkable contributions to cinema, his connection to the vibrant film culture of Chicago, and the countless moments of laughter and emotion he brought to audiences around the world. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his significant impact on film and his enduring legacy as a beloved character actor.
