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Drake Hogestyn, who played John Black on the Peacock soap opera Days of Our Lives, died at the age of 70, on September 28, 2024, after a long fight against pancreatic cancer. He passed away just a day before his 71st birthday.
John Black was initially introduced as “The Pawn,” the right hand of Stefano DiMera, and had gone through several transformations throughout his time on the show. One of the central plots includes his identity crisis as he believed himself to be Roman Brady.
His storyline involved his deep connections with Dr. Marlena Evans, who was both his doctor and lover. In the recent episodes, John and Marlena were seen tensed about their son Brady Black as he dealt with the allegation of hurting Sarah Horton in the accident. After Drake’s death, his character’s fate is left hanging with the uncertainty to continue on the show with a new face.
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Days of Our Lives: Drake Hogestyn dies at 70
Drake Hogestyn was born on September 29, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, United States, and passed away on September 28, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, United States.
In a statement issued by Drake’s family, through the official Instagram handle of Days of Our Lives, on September 29, 2024, the reason behind the death of the actor was highlighted.
“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,” the statement read.
The statement further mentioned that:
“After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”
“He was the most amazing husband, father, papa, and actor. He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business.”
Besides the family of the actor, his co-stars and colleagues have also expressed their condolences to the family. Ken Corday, executive producer of Days of Our Lives, while talking to Today.com, called Hogestyn’s death "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,” said Ken Corday.
His co-stars including Lindsay Godfrey, Paul Telfer, and Robert Scott Wilson also commented on the Instagram post sharing their grief with the fans and the family.
“My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn's family, friends and fans. What a lovely, lovely gracious man,” wrote Nancy Lee Grahn on X.
Drake Hogestyn had been an integral part of the show with his long journey of nearly four decades. Speculations about Drake’s sickness had been swirling since August 2024, as his character John Black left Salem to visit Catherine’s grave in Greece and didn’t return for nearly two months.
Fans of Drake Hogestyn can watch the last few episodes featuring the actor on Peacock.
