Drake Hogestyn, Beloved ‘Days of Our Lives’ Star, Dead at 70 After a Pancreatic Cancer Battle
Drake Hogestyn, who starred on TV’s Days Of Our Lives since the early 1980s as John Black, has died at age 70. The news was announced on social media by his family, who said the actor died surrounded by those closest to him following a brave fight with pancreatic cancer.
Fighting Pancreatic Cancer
Hogestyn’s family confirmed his death in a statement shared on the Days of Our Lives Instagram. The family says he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and battled the disease with fierce determination. The actor passed away in his sleep Sept. 28, 2024 at the age of 70, one day short of his milestone birthday, but he died peacefully following a valiant fight.
Drake Hogestyn has passed away, the statement read, with heavy hearts. After putting up a brave fight and with such dignity that is to be admired, he experienced the battle as only one can in his unfortunate circumstance with utmost strength and courage; and passed peacefully surrounded by those he loved most in the world.
Her Legacy on Days of Our Lives
Drake Hogestyn joined the cast of Days of Our Lives in 1986, taking on the role originally called “The Pawn.” His character soon morphed into John Black, one of the most memorable fictional characters in daytime television history. Alongside Deidre Hall’s Dr. Marlena Evans, his portrayal of John and one of the most beloved couples in daytime TV.
Hogestyn’s career on the show was marked by a few memorable storylines and some dramatic twists, but his work certainly helped to keep Days of Our Lives as one of the top daytime dramas for many years. Hogestyn and Hall received the award for Favorite Couple from Soap Opera Digest in 2005.
Celebs And Fans Pay Their Respects —-
Read more for the deep sentiments shared by fellow cast and friends of Drake Hogestyn. Hogestyn was even described by his former co-star on Days of Our Lives Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady as, “he is funny & kind and thoughtful and genuinely cares about every single scene & person he works with. Sweeney penned, “He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone.
Hope Brady actress Kristian Alfonso shared, “Drake you are so kind and passionate-which radiants on & off the set-I will never forget the love you showed all of us.” You were always our hero.”
Days of Our Lives former actor, Christopher Sean (ex-Paul Narita), aka John Black’s son, Paul posted on Twitter. ‘You weren’t just my TV dad,’ McGlashan says in the video, ‘but you were my real dad.’ “Thank you for everything you taught me,” Sean said emotionally.
Personal Life and Legacy
The Indiana native, who was born in Fort Wayne in 1953, had once set his sights on being a professional baseball player. He would later sign with the Dave Winfield had signed with what at that time was a littleaaa bit after one of their farm teams suddenly in New York York Yankees but an injury in 1977, which left him paralyzed from the shoulder down for six days and deaf in his right ear, led him back towards acting. This career change eventually resulted in his iconic role on Days of Our Lives.
Hogestyn was married to his childhood sweetheart, Victoria Post Haley, with whom he had four children — Whitney, Alexandra (Alex) Rachael and Ben — who also gifted him seven grandchildren. They also highlighted just how much he loved and valued his family in their statement, saying: “He was an amazing husband, father, papa and actor.
A Lasting Impact
For generations to come, we will remember what Drake Hogestyn did for Days of Our Lives and daytime television. His character, John Black, was a central figure on the show and his performance is still remembered by fans and those in the industry.
It is with great sorrow that we share the news of Hogestyn’s passing, but his impact will not die in vain as memories he constructed on and off-screen shall remain forever. His kindness, generosity and love have changed so many lives. Drake Hogestyn — Rest In Peace