Both Motorcycle Gang (1957) and Hot Rod Gang (1958) featured John's singing skills. He later had recording contracts with a few labels
Earned a B.A. in economics at Oklahoma State University.
Father of Anthony Brooks Ashley.
Interviewed by Tom Weaver in the book "Interviews with B Science Fiction and Horror Movie Makers" (McFarland & Co., 1988).
Lost out to Michael Landon for the title lead in I Was a Teenage Werewolf (1957).
Married actress Deborah Walley in 1962 and they subsequently became sand-and-surf playmates in the film Beach Blanket Bingo (1965). They had one son, TV associate producer Anthony Brooks Ashley born on May 4, 1963, but divorced three years later.
Played Frankie Avalon's best pal in a few "beach party" flicks of the 1960s.
Was adopted when only a few months old. Never knew his birth parents.