“Days of Our Lives” star  Drake Hogestyn passed away after a battle with pancreatic cancer. His family posted a statement on Instagram on September 28. The actor was 70 years old. He died one day short of his 71st birthday.

“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.”

 

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Born Donald Drake Hogestyn on September 29, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he grew up with aspirations of playing professional baseball. He attended the University of South Florida on a baseball scholarship, where he majored in microbiology and psychology. Hogestyn was later drafted by the New York Yankees and played in their minor league system until an injury ended his baseball career.

Hogestyn shifted his focus to acting. In 1986, he was cast as John Black on Days of Our Lives, a role that would define his career. John Black became an iconic character, involved in various dramatic storylines, including amnesia, espionage, and complex relationships. Hogestyn’s performance made him one of the most recognizable faces in daytime television.

Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black earned him a dedicated fan base, and he became a staple of Days of Our Lives for decades Over the years, he has been nominated for several Soap Opera Digest Awards, winning multiple times, including for Favorite Hero and Favorite Couple (shared with co-star Deidre Hall).

Rest In Peace.