Long-time star of the US show Days of Our Lives , Drake Hogestyn, has died aged 70 from pancreatic cancer . The actor died one day shy of his 71st birthday on September 28, at his home ‘surrounded by loved ones’. He had starred as popular character John Black since 1986, returning in 2011 to the American soap after a short three-year hiatus.
Hogestyn’s family confirmed the death in a statement on Instagram , stating the news came with ‘heavy hearts’ after his cancer diagnosis. The statement read: ‘He was thrown the curve ball 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.’ They added: ‘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.
’ Hogestyn, from Fort Wayne, Indiana, got his first acting gig after responding to an open talent search by Columbia Pictures which included 75,000 people. He was one of 30 successful applicants, landing a role in the TV adaptation of Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in the early 80s. From here, he starred in minor roles until securing his part on Days of Our Lives in 1986 as a mystery man known as ‘The Pawn’, who was later revealed to be the presumed dead Roman .