Drake Hogestyn, the legendary Days of Our Lives actor, has passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
He was just one day shy of his 71st birthday, dying on September 28, 2024.
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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.
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.
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.
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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