Drake Hogestyn, Days Of Our Lives Actor, Dead At 70
Soap opera fans are mourning as news breaks that Drake Hogestyn, famed for his role on "Days of Our Lives," has died at age 70. The actor, who played John Black on the long-running soap, succumbed to pancreatic cancer on September 28, one day before his 71st birthday.
"He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination," his family shared in a statement. "After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most amazing husband, father, papa, and actor."
Hogestyn debuted on "Days of Our Lives" in 1986 and was an integral part of the popular long-running soap, playing John Black for 38 years. He is survived by his wife, Victoria, and their children, Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael, and Ben, and seven grandchildren.
Soap world is heartbroken by Hogestyn's death
Friends and coworkers of "Days of Our Lives" star Drake Hogestyn have been left heartbroken by the news of his death. "This is a very difficult one for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed," the soap's Executive Producer, Ken Corday, shared in a statement, praising Hogestyn's acting skills and contribution to the soap.
Hogestyn had some of the soap's strongest storylines, making him a firm fan favorite. When he joined "Days of Our Lives" in 1986, he played John Black. However, it was later revealed that Black had suffered memory loss, undergone extensive plastic surgery, and was, in fact, the assumed-dead Roman Brady, previously portrayed by Wayne Northrop.
Hogestyn's onscreen son, Christopher Sean, who plays Paul Narita, paid tribute to the late actor in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "I will always love you. You were more than just my tv father, in my eyes you were my dad," Sean wrote. "Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero. Miss and love you so much Drake. Rest in Peace Dad."