Drake Hogestyn – The beloved star of Days of Our Lives, has passed away after a brave battle with pancreatic cancer. Just one day before his 71st birthday.
He left us on September 28, 2024, leaving behind a legacy cherished by fans around the world.
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Drake Hogestyn’s Major Contributions That Made Him a Superstar
- Hogestyn was best known for his iconic portrayal of John Black, a role he played for an incredible 38 years on the popular daytime soap opera.
- His death marks the end of an era in soap opera history, as his character became one of the longest-running and most beloved figures in daytime television.
- Hogestyn’s battle with pancreatic cancer was a private struggle, but his enduring strength and commitment to his craft left a lasting impression on fans and the entertainment world.
With a career that spanned nearly four decades on Days of Our Lives, Hogestyn’s legacy is one of passion, resilience, and connection with his audience.
He leaves behind a monumental legacy as both a talented actor and a cherished figure in the hearts of millions of fans worldwide.
Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn | Courtesy: Getty Images
Hogestyn wasn’t just known for his long-running role though. He and his childhood sweetheart, Victoria Post, wed in 1986 and remained married for 37 years. They welcomed four children — daughters Whitney, Alexandra and Rachael, and son, Ben — and have seven grandchildren.
Beyond his professional success, Drake Hogestyn’s life was rich in personal fulfillment. He was a devoted family man, married to his high school sweetheart, Victoria, for 37 years. Together, they raised four children and welcomed seven grandchildren. Hogestyn’s love for his family and his commitment to his craft mirrored his resilience, including his private, challenging battle with cancer, which he faced with unwavering strength.
Starting his career as a promising baseball player, Hogestyn later moved to acting after a Columbia Pictures talent search. His journey from the baseball field to daytime television made him an inspiration to many. Executive Producer Ken Corday honored him as “the ultimate team player,” a testament to Hogestyn’s dedication and warmth, qualities that endeared him to millions worldwide.
Image Drake Hogestyn with Eileen Davidson on ‘Days of Our Lives.’. Courtesy Everett Collection
Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn initially sought a career as a professional baseball player, even signing with the New York Yankees and playing for one of their farm teams until he was injured in 1977.
Hogestyn’s first big role came in the early 1980s in the CBS series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. He initially joined Days of Our Lives in 1986 as a mysterious character known as “The Pawn” before becoming a fan favorite as John Black.
John became one-half of several beloved pairings over the years, but few have been more popular than his connection with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall. Together, they won a Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005.
Check out the The Days of Our Lives’s post on X
The popular soap opera shared a statement from the actor’s family on social media.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” it reads. “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.”
Hogestyn is survived by his wife, Victoria, their four children Rachael, Ben, Whitney, Alexandra and their partners, and seven grandchildren.
The USA International extends our deepest condolences to Hogestyn’s loved ones. He will be greatly missed.
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Find out more about the unforgettable Superstar Drake Hogestyn on FoxTV Article.