Drake Hogestyn, longtime Days of Our Lives Star, dies at 70 of due to pancreatic cancer

Drake Hogestyn, the beloved Days of Our Lives actor known for portraying John Black for 38 years, has passed away at the age of 70. The iconic soap opera shared the news through a heartfelt statement from Hogestyn's family on social media: "It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He faced the curveball of his life when diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he approached the challenge with remarkable strength and determination.


After an extraordinary fight, he passed peacefully, surrounded by loved ones." The statement added, "He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and actor. He loved performing for the *Days* audience and cherished working alongside the best cast, crew, and production team. We will miss him deeply, all the Days of our Lives." Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn initially pursued a career in professional baseball, signing with the New York Yankees and playing for a farm team until an injury ended his sports aspirations in 1977.


Hogestyn’s first major acting role came in the early 1980s on CBS’s Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. He joined Days of Our Lives in 1986 as "The Pawn," later evolving into the fan-favorite John Black. Over the years, John became part of several beloved pairings, none more iconic than his relationship with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall. The duo won the Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005. Off-screen, Hogestyn shared a 37-year marriage with his childhood sweetheart, Victoria Post.


The couple wed in 1986 and had four children—daughters Whitney, Alexandra, and Rachael, and son Ben—and seven grandchildren. Following his passing, Hogestyn’s DOOL co-stars expressed their grief on social media. Alison Sweeney wrote, "Drake was an incredible man—funny, generous, and thoughtful. He loved Days, the fans, and everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family. He was a huge part of my life, and I’ll treasure every memory.” Kristian Alfonso added, "I’ll always remember you as a loving father, husband, and dear friend. You were passionate, kind, and generous. Thank you for the love you gave us on and off set. You were always our hero, Drake."