‘Days of Our Lives’ actor Drake Hogestyn dies

Drake Hogestyn Dies at 70

Iconic Soap Opera Actor

Starred in Days of Our Lives

The television world is mourning the death of Drake Hogestyn, best known for his portrayal of John Black on the iconic soap opera Days of Our Lives, a role he played for 38 years.

The actor passed away at 70, just one day before his 71st birthday, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.

The heartbreaking news was shared on the official Days of Our Lives Twitter account, where Hogestyn became one of the most beloved figures for fans.

«It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He received the hardest news of his life when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. After an incredible fight, he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones,» the post read.

Actor Drake Hogestyn Passes Away

It’s hard to imagine Days of Our Lives without Drake Hogestyn. We’ve grown up watching him portray one of the greatest characters in John Black and in one of the most iconic romances in soap history. As great as John was, Drake the person was greater. #DAYS pic.twitter.com/jI8WDyAAs4

— ryan w (@SourceRyan) September 29, 2024

Married for 37 years to Victoria Proust, Hogestyn leaves behind four children and seven grandchildren, to whom he dedicated much of his life off-screen.

His passing has deeply affected many of his colleagues, including Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on Days of Our Lives.

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«He was the most incredible husband, father, grandfather, and actor. He loved acting for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew, and production team in the industry.»

«We love him and will miss him every day of our lives,» Hogestyn’s family shared.

Drake Hogestyn Dies at 70 – Photo: Shutterstock

Sweeney posted an emotional message describing Hogestyn as «an amazing man» and expressed her sadness over the loss of her longtime colleague.

«My heart breaks for his family, they meant everything to him,» the actress said. She also reminisced about how Hogestyn was a significant part of her life on set and shared that she would miss him dearly.

«I will treasure every story, every joke, and every hug,» she added, recalling the many scenes they shared over the years.

Hogestyn had a unique path to acting. Before stepping in front of the cameras, he pursued a career in professional baseball, even signing with the New York Yankees.

His Time on Days of Our Lives

pic.twitter.com/AWZvS2tJV8

— Days of our Lives (@DaysPeacock) September 29, 2024

However, an injury in 1977 ended his sports career, prompting him to explore new opportunities, according to ABC.

It wasn’t until the early 1980s that he landed his first acting role in the CBS series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

But his life would change forever in 1986 when he joined the cast of Days of Our Lives.

Initially playing a mysterious character known as «The Pawn,» Hogestyn quickly won the hearts of fans with his role as John Black.

Throughout his decades on the NBC soap opera, Hogestyn became one of the most significant figures in the show, with his character becoming a fan favorite.

During his career on Days of Our Lives, Hogestyn earned numerous accolades, including two «Sexiest Star» awards in 1994 and 1995.

He also won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005, alongside his on-screen partner Deidre Hall, who portrayed Marlena Evans.

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Photo: MundoNOW