Iconic soap opera star Drake Hogestyn has died at the age of 70, just a day before his 71st birthday.
Hogestyn was best known as John Black on the television series Days of Our Lives, a role he played for 38 years.
His family confirmed in a statement that he died on Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
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“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement said.
“When she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer it was the biggest shock of her life, but she faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination.
“After fighting an incredible battle, he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.
“He was the most amazing husband, father, dad and actor. He loved performing for the DAYS audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew and production team in the business.
“We love him and we will miss him all the days of our lives.”
Alison Sweeney, who was on Days of Our Lives for 21 years, paid tribute to Hogestyn.
“Drake was an incredible person,” he wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
“He was funny, generous and thoughtful.
“He cared about every scene, every person.
“He loved Days, the fans and he shared that passion with everyone on the set. My heart breaks for his family, they were everything to him. He was a huge part of my life in Days. I will miss him dearly and will cherish every story, every joke and every hug.
In addition to Days of Our Lives, Hogestyn appeared in 22 episodes of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, and appeared in an episode of Criminal Minds in 2018.
