Drake Hogestyn , who portrayed John Black in the beloved soap Days Of Our Live s, has died at 70, a day before his 71st birthday tomorrow. The news was confirmed by the long-running show’s social media account , which released the statement: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. 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,” the statement continued. “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 ,” the message, from the TV star’s family, concluded. Hogestyn first began playing John Black in 1986, with a hiatus from 2009 to 2011, upon which he returned to the popular character until his death. His character’s main turning point was the reveal that he was actually the assumed-dead Roman Brady (originated by Wayne Northrop) after plastic surgery and memory loss.
Executive producer of the NBC-Peacock show, Ken Corday, said in a statement , per Soap Opera Digest, “This is a very difficult one for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impac.