EditorialsRIP John Ashton - His 10 Most Memorable Movies

10 Memorable TV & Movies Featuring John Ashton

Written by Paige Li & Likewise Pix | Oct 01, 2024 Today, we take a look back at the prolific career of John Ashton, celebrating his unforgettable roles that captivated audiences from Gen Z to Boomers alike.

Gone Baby Gone

Gone Baby Gone
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Released on September 18, 2007, Gone Baby Gone showcases a thrilling storyline where a four-year-old girl goes missing, prompting her aunt to hire two private detectives, Patrick Kenzie and Angie Gennaro. Despite their lack of experience, the detectives are chosen for their familiarity with the rough neighborhood. This film, with an average rating of 3.6, remains a testament to John Ashton’s versatility in bringing gripping narratives to life. Watch here

Midnight Run

Midnight Run
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The 1988 classic, Midnight Run, features Ashton in a high-stakes pursuit narrative where a bounty hunter chases a former Mafia accountant who has embezzled $15 million. The film, which debuted on July 20, 1988, is adored for its mix of action and humor, holding an average rating of 3.6. This movie highlights Ashton’s skill in balancing intensity with a touch of comedy. Watch here

Beverly Hills Cop

Beverly Hills Cop
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In Beverly Hills Cop, released on December 5, 1984, Ashton stars alongside Eddie Murphy in a film that combines fast-talking street smarts with police procedural prowess. This iconic film, enjoying an average rating of 3.5, features Ashton in a role where rules are meant to be bent as Detroit cop Axel Foley solves his friend’s murder in sun-soaked Beverly Hills. Watch here

Beverly Hills Cop II

Beverly Hills Cop II
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On May 18, 1987, Beverly Hills Cop II hit the screens, reuniting audiences with Axel Foley played by John Ashton. This sequel sees Foley delve into the shooting of a police captain, unraveling a series of cunning robberies. Fans have given it an average rating of 3.5, appreciating the seamless continuation of this thrilling saga. Watch here

Little Big League

Little Big League
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Ashton shines in the family-friendly Little Big League, released on June 29, 1994. The film navigates the unique premise of a preteen becoming the owner and manager of the Minnesota Twins, capturing both humorous and touching moments. With an average rating of 3.1, it offers a nostalgic trip to a time when anything seemed possible. Watch here

The Tommyknockers

The Tommyknockers
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Based on Stephen King’s novel, The Tommyknockers aired on May 10, 1993. This miniseries surrounds the mysterious transformation of townsfolk into gizmo-building mutants after uncovering a buried UFO. Despite a lower average rating of 2.6, Ashton’s performance brings a notable intensity to this eerie narrative. Watch here

I Know My First Name Is Steven

I Know My First Name Is Steven
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In the harrowing dramatization I Know My First Name Is Steven, released on May 22, 1989, John Ashton delves into the poignant story of Steven Stayner, a boy who was kidnapped and endured years of abuse. The film, with a remarkable average rating of 4, captures the essence of tragedy and triumph, resonating deeply with audiences. Watch here

Meet the Deedles

Meet the Deedles
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On March 27, 1998, Meet the Deedles introduced audiences to a quirky comedy where two surfers become Yellowstone park rangers to thwart a vengeful former ranger. Despite its modest average rating of 2.1, Ashton’s role adds a layer of charisma and fun to this lighthearted adventure. Watch here

King Kong Lives

King Kong Lives
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King Kong Lives, released on November 21, 1986, brings a fictional twist where Kong survives his fall from the Twin Towers with an artificial heart and teams up with a female ape to wreak havoc. Despite a lower rating of 1.9, Ashton’s participation in the film highlights his willingness to explore diverse genres. Watch here

Little Girls in Pretty Boxes

Little Girls in Pretty Boxes
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Aired on January 18, 1997, Little Girls in Pretty Boxes follows the journey of a gymnast who moves to train with the top US coach, facing numerous personal challenges. With an average rating of 3, Ashton’s performance brings depth to this somber yet inspiring tale of perseverance and the high costs of pursuing excellence. Watch here

In fond memory of John Ashton, whose diverse roles and compelling performances have left an indelible mark on cinema and television. His talent brought life to varied characters, making him a beloved figure for generations. Rest in peace, John Ashton—you will be dearly missed, but your legacy through film and television endures.