Drake Hogestyn, best known for his iconic portrayal of John Black on the long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives, has died at the age of 70. He passed away peacefully, one day before his 71st birthday, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Deadline reported that the news of Hogestyn’s passing was confirmed by Days of Our Lives on social media, and tributes have poured in from both his family and colleagues.
Hogestyn, who first appeared as John Black in 1986, quickly became a fan favorite. He took a brief hiatus from the show between 2009 and 2011 but returned to reprise the role, continuing until his death.
Over the years, his character’s complex backstory, including a dramatic reveal that he was actually Roman Brady after undergoing plastic surgery and losing his memory, captivated millions of viewers.
Beyond his acting career, Hogestyn was known as a devoted husband, father, and grandfather.
His family praised him for his role at home, noting that he brought the same dedication and passion to his personal life that he displayed on screen. "He was the most amazing husband, father, and papa," his family shared in their statement.
The family expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support during his battle with cancer. Hogestyn faced the diagnosis with incredible strength and determination, enduring a difficult fight that ultimately ended with him surrounded by his loved ones. His passing was described as peaceful, bringing an end to a life that touched many.
Born on September 29, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Drake Hogestyn initially pursued a career in baseball. He attended college on a baseball scholarship, where he double-majored in microbiology and applied sciences, with the intention of becoming an oral surgeon.
His athletic talents caught the attention of major league scouts, and he was drafted by both the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees. However, an injury in 1977 cut his promising baseball career short.
Hogestyn’s entry into acting came in an unexpected way. He was selected by Columbia Pictures during a nationwide talent search and made his television debut in 1982 on the show Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Just a few years later, his role on Days of Our Lives would cement his place in television history.
Hogestyn’s impact on Days of Our Lives was immeasurable, both on-screen and behind the scenes. Ken Corday, the executive producer of the show, spoke highly of Hogestyn’s contributions.
"This is a very difficult one for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player," Corday shared. "His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched."
Fellow actors and industry professionals have also expressed their condolences and admiration for Hogestyn. Actress Nancy Lee Grahn shared her heartfelt thoughts, saying, "My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s family, friends, and fans. What a lovely, lovely gracious man."
Hogestyn’s diagnosis of pancreatic cancer was a shock to both his family and fans. In their statement, the family described the diagnosis as "the curve ball of his life." Despite the grim prognosis, Hogestyn faced his illness with the same courage and resilience that defined his life and career.
The outpouring of love and support from fans during his illness was a testament to his impact not only as an actor but as a person. Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black may have brought him fame, but it was his kindness, humility, and dedication to his craft that endeared him to those who knew him.
In addition to his television career, Hogestyn’s legacy will be remembered by the Days of Our Lives family and viewers who watched his transformation on screen for nearly four decades.
The show’s social media tribute echoed the sentiments of many: "We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives."
His family’s poignant statement reflected both the personal and professional loss: "He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business."
As fans and colleagues mourn the loss of a soap opera icon, they also celebrate the incredible legacy Drake Hogestyn leaves behind, both as an actor and as a beloved family man. His strength and resilience in life, much like his on-screen persona, will not be forgotten.
