Days of Our Lives fans are grappling with the heartbreaking news of Drake Hogestyn’s death, but even more so with the

realization that we’ve already witnessed his final scenes as John Black, a role he inhabited for 38 years. Drake’s last

episode aired on September 9, 2024, just a few weeks before his passing from pancreatic cancer on September 28, leaving

fans and the Days family in mourning.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

In Hogestyn’s final episode, John shares a touching moment with his grandson, Tate, who is struggling with guilt after revealing a painful truth to Holly about her father’s death.

John’s warmth and wisdom shine through as he comforts Tate, encouraging him not to give up on Holly and offering advice with his signature tenderness. It’s a scene filled with love and the generational bond between grandfather and grandson, making it a fitting farewell for Hogestyn’s beloved character.

Later in the episode, John reunites with his son, Brady, after his release from jail, in a scene that’s equally heartfelt. The two share an embrace, a symbolic moment representing the strength of their father-son relationship. These moments, though bittersweet, allowed fans to say goodbye to John Black in a way that felt genuine to the character Hogestyn embodied for so long.

John and Marlena: An Iconic Love Story

For fans of the iconic pairing of John and Marlena—often referred to as “Jarlena”—the last shared scene between Hogestyn and Deidre Hall (Marlena) aired on September 5, 2024. It was a simple yet powerful exchange.

After an emotional phone call with their daughter, Belle, John expresses how much he misses her, leading to a tender moment between him and Marlena. The couple’s deep bond and mutual support were on full display, offering fans one final glimpse of their enduring love before the character’s departure.

Over the decades, John and Marlena have become one of the most beloved supercouples in soap opera history, known for their many marriages, separations, and dramatic reunions. Their love story, filled with passion and resilience, made them a cornerstone of Days of Our Lives. John’s final moments with Marlena encapsulate the emotional depth that defined their relationship for nearly four decades.

The Legacy of Drake Hogestyn

Drake Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black, who started out as a mysterious character known as “The Pawn” before becoming a fan favorite, has left an indelible mark on Days of Our Lives. Hogestyn’s ability to bring depth, charm, and strength to John Black made him a cherished figure in daytime television.

As tributes from his co-stars poured in, many remembered Hogestyn as a kind and generous person off-screen, just as beloved as the character he played.

Stephen Nichols, who portrayed John’s best friend Patch, described Hogestyn as a “special soul” who radiated joy and love for life, while Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady) recalled his humor and generosity.

These heartfelt tributes reflect the profound impact Hogestyn had on those around him and the legacy he leaves behind.

How to Watch John and Marlena’s Last Scenes

For fans who want to relive John’s final moments, or for those who missed the episodes, the good news is that *Days of Our Lives* streams exclusively on Peacock.

Episodes from September 5 and 9, 2024, offer a poignant farewell to both John and Marlena. Peacock’s subscription service makes it easy for fans to revisit these emotional episodes and celebrate Hogestyn’s extraordinary contribution to the soap opera world.

A Legacy That Lives On

Drake Hogestyn’s final scenes as John Black were everything fans could have hoped for—a heartfelt, emotional farewell to a character who has been a fixture of Salem for decades. As Days of Our Lives continues to move forward, Hogestyn’s legacy will remain a cherished part of the show’s history.

His portrayal of John Black, especially in his final moments with Brady and Marlena, will be remembered by fans for years to come.

Though we’ve said goodbye to both John Black and the man who brought him to life, the impact of Hogestyn’s performance—and his contribution to the world of daytime drama—will never be forgotten.