CDL is sad to announce Drake Hogestyn, beloved as John Black on Days of our Lives, has died; John Black’s portrayer, afan favorite was 70 years old. Hogestyn was beloved by legions of soap opera fans, and was

on the show since 1986.

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers: The Family Made An Announcement

His family communicated his death through a spokesman for the show, saying “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn.

He was thrown the curveball 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.

He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crews, and production team in the business.

We love him and we will miss him all the Days of Our Lives. -The Hogestyn Family”

DOOL Spoilers: Donald Drake Hogestyn Was An Incredible Man

Executive Producer Ken Corday reflects, “This is an incredibly tough moment for all of us. Hogey exemplified what it means to be a team player, and words fall short of conveying how profoundly he will be missed.

His influence on our show, both personally and professionally, was significant and will always be unparalleled.”

Donald Drake Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on September 29, 1953, and graduated from North Side High School.

He pursued higher education at the University of South Florida in Tampa, where he was awarded a baseball scholarship.

His studies focused on pre-dentistry, complemented by a double major in microbiology and applied sciences.

As an athlete, Hogestyn was drafted by both the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees.

He played third base for the Yankees’ minor league team until an injury in 1977 shifted his path. He then ventured into acting, participating in a Columbia Pictures talent search that attracted 75,000 applicants, ultimately being chosen as one of 30 finalists.

His breakout role came in the nighttime series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers: “The Pawn”

In 1986, the actor made his debut on DAYS as the mysterious John Black, a character shrouded in more intrigue about his past than perhaps any other in soap opera history.

Initially known as “The Pawn,” this storyline was recently revisited. It was later uncovered that this Pawn was actually the presumed deceased Roman Brady, portrayed by Wayne Northrup.

John and Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall) eventually reunited and celebrated their love with a grand wedding.

In 1991, Northrup returned to the series, revealing that Hogestyn’s character was not the biological son of Shawn (Frank Parker) and Caroline (Peggy McCay) Brady.

Upon discovering he wasn’t the real “Roman,” Marlena’s love prompted him to reclaim his identity as John.

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers: John And Marlena-A Forever Couple

Regardless of the hurdles they faced, the actors portrayed their struggles as a testament to their love story.

Whether confronting adversaries like Kristen (originally Eileen Davidson, now Stacy Haiduk), Andre DiMera (Thaao Penghlis), Stefano (Joe Mascolo), or the false accusation that Marlena was a murderer (which she wasn’t), John’s devotion to Marlena—and hers to him—remained steadfast.

Their love has always been evident, never faltering through the trials they encountered. John and Marlena struggled to suppress their feelings for each other.

Even with Roman back in the picture, Marlena felt an undeniable pull towards John. Their passionate encounter led to the conception of their daughter, Belle (Martha Madison), while Marlena was still married to Roman.

Throughout the mid to late 90s, their love was thwarted by the schemes of Kristen DiMera (now Stacy Haiduk) and the influence of Satan.

When Marlena became possessed and began to levitate, John’s former life as a priest proved invaluable as he performed an exorcism to save her.

DOOL Spoilers: Leaving And Returning

In 1999, liberated from the grips of both Kristen and Satan, John and Marlena tied the knot once more, but soon found themselves facing new adversities, including

Princess Gina Von Amberg (Kristian Alfonso) and the Salem Stalker. Although John was written off in 2007, he made a dramatic return later.

Both actors, Hogestyn and Hall, departed from DAYS the following year but made their comeback in the fall of 2011.

“I believe the long-time viewers understand that romance doesn’t fade after 45,” Hogestyn shared in 2022 interview, as the show transitioned from NBC to the streaming service Peacock.

“There’s still a desire for romance, just expressed in a more mature and profound way. It’s about the connection between two people. That’s what audiences want to witness.”

Days Of Our Lives Spoilers: Drake Is Survived By His Wife, Four Children And Four Grandchildren

Drake Hogestyn’s impressive acting portfolio features roles in shows like Criminal Minds and the holiday film Christmas Tree Lane.

He leaves behind his beloved wife and high school sweetheart, Victoria, along with their four children: Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael, and Ben (known for his role as Lucas on General Hospital), as well as four cherished grandchildren.

Since DAYS films several months in advance, fans can look forward to seeing Hogestyn on their screens for some time to come. Our sincerest condolences to the Hogestyn family upon this shocking loss.