The Beverly Hills Cop franchise has delivered decades of action, laughs, and Eddie Murphy’s unforgettable charm. Now, in 2024, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F brings the much-loved character Axel Foley back to the big screen, promising a heavy dose of nostalgia with a modern twist. A significant part of what keeps the franchise timeless is its memorable cast, blending familiar faces with fresh talent.
This article takes you behind the scenes of the cast of Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F, exploring the actors bringing their characters to life.
Eddie Murphy as Axel Foley
The face of the franchise, Eddie Murphy, returns as the street-smart, quick-witted Axel Foley. Murphy’s portrayal of Foley has always been the franchise’s heart, and his comeback ensures fans get the perfect mix of sharp detective work and comedic genius. At 63, Eddie Murphy’s energy in Axel F remains boundless, stunning audiences with his timeless charisma.
From his early breakout in Saturday Night Live to a legendary film career (Coming to America, The Nutty Professor), Murphy has a proven ability to dominate the screen. However, his role is more than just a nostalgic reprise; it’s a character infused with maturity and depth—a seasoned Foley reflecting on years in law enforcement yet facing personal stakes with his daughter’s safety on the line.
Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Detective Bobby Abbott
Joining Axel Foley is Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Detective Bobby Abbott, a new partner in crime (and comedy). Known for his versatility, from playing the charming romantic lead in 500 Days of Summer to delivering a gripping performance in Looper, Gordon-Levitt brings a refreshing edge to the film. Abbott’s no-nonsense approach contrasts sharply with Foley’s more unorthodox methods, setting the stage for hilariously awkward yet effective teamwork.
Taylour Paige as Jane Saunders
Taylour Paige steps into the role of Jane Saunders, Axel Foley’s daughter, whose life becomes the catalyst for this movie’s high-stakes plot. Paige, who made waves in Zola and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom, shines as a capable character balancing vulnerability and strength. Her dynamic with Murphy adds emotional weight to Axel F while showcasing a new generation of talent in the franchise.
Returning Legends
What would a Beverly Hills Cop movie be without some fan-favorite returning characters? Thankfully, producers didn’t leave us wondering.
Judge Reinhold as Billy Rosewood
Judge Reinhold reprises his role as Billy Rosewood, whose loyalty to Axel Foley over the years remains unwavering. Bringing consistent humor and a lovable persona, Rosewood’s camaraderie with Foley is sure to bring plenty of laughs while reminding fans of the magic created in the original trilogy.
John Ashton as Chief John Taggart
John Ashton is back in action as Chief Taggart, another familiar face longtime fans are ecstatic to see. His tough yet caring demeanor serves as a wonderful throwback to what made the franchise special in the 1980s.
Paul Reiser as Deputy Chief Jeffrey Friedman
Paul Reiser also makes his return as Jeffrey Friedman, whose interactions with Foley still carry that signature mix of wit and exasperation.
Bronson Pinchot as Serge
Bronson Pinchot, known for his scene-stealing moments as Serge, reprises his quirky role. His comedic timing and eccentric delivery remain legendary, adding an extra dose of humor to the sequel.
Kevin Bacon as Captain Cade Grant
Rounding out the stellar cast is Kevin Bacon as Captain Cade Grant. Bacon’s ability to command the screen in dramas (Mystic River, Footloose) and suspense thrillers (Hollow Man) makes him a perfect addition to this blockbuster. His scenes with Eddie Murphy are sure to keep audiences both on edge and roaring with laughter.
Chemistry is Key to Axel F’s Success
With a mix of iconic returning actors and exciting new additions, Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F thrives on the chemistry of its ensemble cast. Murphy leads the charge, but each member plays a crucial role in making this sequel a worthy addition to the franchise.
The interplay between veterans like Reinhold and Ashton, with fresh faces like Gordon-Levitt and Paige, creates a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. This balanced approach helps maintain the legacy of Beverly Hills Cop while introducing its world to a new audience.
Why This Cast Stands Out
The Beverly Hills Cop series has always stood apart thanks to cast synergy, engaging narratives, and Eddie Murphy’s unparalleled charm. What makes the Axel F cast particularly noteworthy is how they honor the franchise while pushing it forward.
Each actor brings something new to the table:
- Murphy’s timeless Axel Foley now balances personal stakes with his signature humor.
- Paige brings familial ties and emotional depth, making this more than a buddy cop movie.
- Gordon-Levitt refreshes the crime-solving duo formula with his dynamic on-screen energy.
When paired with nostalgia-inducing returns from Reinhold, Ashton, and Pinchot, along with the gravitas of Kevin Bacon, the cast elevates Axel F beyond a simple sequel.
Final Thoughts
Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F delivers what fans of the franchise have long awaited—a return to form filled with familiar faces, fresh chemistry, and Eddie Murphy’s effortless charm. But what sets this movie apart is its seamless fusion of past and present, embodied by its incredible ensemble cast.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer, Axel F offers something for everyone. It’s a film carried by a cast that knows its audience and honors its legacy while charting an exciting path forward for Beverly Hills Cop.
Eager to catch this dynamic cast in action? Stream Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F now on Netflix, or revisit the original trilogy to see how it all began.
