'Days of Our Lives' Star Drake Hogestyn Dies at 70

Drake Hogestyn, known for playing the role of John Black on Days of Our Lives since the 1980s, passed away recently, at the age of 70.

The official Days of Our Lives Instagram shared a statement from Hogestyn's family, which said, “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. 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. After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”

"He was the most amazing husband, father, papa, and actor," the statement continued. "He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives."

Hogestyn's family announced the tragic news the day before what would've been his 71st birthday. Fans, friends and people who worked with Hogestyn on the show shared kind words in the wake of his death.

Days of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday said in a statement to Soap Opera Digest, "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. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”

Actress Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on the soap opera, wrote, "Drake was an incredible man. He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set...I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke & every hug."

Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana and he had an interesting journey that led him to Day of Our Lives. He attended the University of South Florida on a baseball scholarship, studying for a career as an oral surgeon.

He was drafted by the New York Yankees and played for a time for one of their farm teams before an injury in 1977 led him to pursue a career in acting. His first role was in Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in 1982, and he joined Days of Our Lives not long after, debuting as Black in 1986.

Hogestyn is survived by his wife, Victoria Post, their three children, Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael and Ben, and his grandchildren.

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