Hogestyn, ‘Days of Our Lives’ star, dies at 70 after battling pancreatic cancer.
Drake Hogestyn, a longtime cast member of the soap opera Days of Our Lives, has passed away at the age of 70 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
His family shared the heartbreaking news through a statement posted on the show’s official Instagram account.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He fought his illness with incredible strength and determination,” the statement said. “After an unbelievable fight, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
He was a devoted husband, father, and actor. Performing for the ‘Days’ audience and working with his fellow cast members was something he truly cherished. We love him and will miss him every day.”
Hogestyn first appeared on Days of Our Lives in January 1986, portraying John Black, a character known for being a hero and spy. Over the course of 38 years, he appeared in more than 4,200 episodes of the long-running soap, which moved to the streaming service Peacock in 2022.
Outside of Days of Our Lives, Hogestyn had roles in other TV projects, including Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and several TV movies during the 1980s and 1990s.
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Many of his co-stars have shared their condolences, including Kassie DePaiva, who played Eve on the show. “I’m so saddened by this news,” she posted on social media. “He was one of the kindest people I’ve ever worked with and made the world a better place.”
Drake Hogestyn’s legacy will live on through his work and the countless lives he touched during his career.
