Drake Hogestyn who played John Black on “Days of Our Lives” for 38 years has died due to pancreatic cancer.

john black days of our lives

Hogestyn first appeared on “Days of Our Lives” on Jan 24, 1986.

He went on to play John Black heroic spy, mercenary, police officer, private investigator and secret agent in over 4,200 episodes of the NBC soap.

drake hogestyn death

Hogestyn perform in musical CBS series “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and handful of TB film in 1980 and 90 consisting of Generation Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues One Stormy Night and Night Sins.

john black

Kassie DePaiva who played Eve on  “Days of Our Lives” paid tribute to Hogestyn on social media “Im so saddened by this news” One of the kindest people i have ever worked with  What an amazing life he had.He made the world a better place. He will be missed.”

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The actor family revealed the news in a statement posted on Instagram account for long running soap opera.

“Its 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 one. He was most amazing husband father papa and actor. He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with greatest cast, crew and production team in business. We love him we will miss all the days of our lives.”

drake hogestyn news

The actor was just one day shy of his 71st birthday when he died on Sept 28, 2024.

actor drake hogestyn

Born in Fort Wayne Indiana Hogestyn start a career as professional baseball player even signing with New York Yankees and playing for one their farm teams until he was injured in 1977.

John became on half of multiple beloved couples over the years but few have been more famous than his connection with Marlena Evans played by Deidre Hall.

Together they won a Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005.

donald drake hogestyn

He and his his childhood friend Victoria Post marriage in 1986 and remained married for 37 years.

They welcomed four children, Rachel, Alexandra and Whitney are daughters.

Son Ben and have seven grandchildren.

Genie Francis wrote

“So sad to hear of Drake Hogestyn passing. Such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure to work with him.I always loved how much he loved his wife and children”

The actors Dool costars wrote on social media

“Drake was an incredible man”

Alison sweeney wrote

“He was funny generous an thoughtful. He cared about every single person and scene. He loved Days, the fans and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family they meant everything to him. He was such a huge part o my life at Days. i will miss him terribly and treasure every story every joke and every hug”

Christopher Sean who played John illegitimate child Paul Narita wrote on X

” I will always love you” he said “You were more than just my tv father in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero.Miss and love you so much Drake Rest in Peace Dad”

Kristian Alfonso wrote

“I shall always remember you as a Loving father, husband and Dear friend but mostly an incredible passionate human being, generous and immensely kind. Thank you for the love you gave us all every day  Drake on set and off you were always our hero”