Longtime Days of Our Lives star Drake Hogestyn dies of pancreatic cancer
Drake Hogestyn
Drake Hogestyn, the actor who played John Black on Days of Our Lives for 38 years, has passed away. He was just one day shy of his 71st birthday when he died on September 28, 2024, after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Hogestyn’s family shared the heartbreaking news with fans through a statement posted on Days of Our Lives' social media accounts.
"It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn," 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."
The statement continued, "He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. 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.”
Meanwhile, Days of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday told People, "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 impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched."
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"Drake was an incredible man," Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on the popular show, wrote on Instagram. "He was funny, generous, and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant everything to him. He was such a huge part of my life at Days. I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke, and every hug."
Kristian Alfonso, who portrayed Hope Brady, posted her own heartfelt tribute, which read, "I’ll always remember you as a loving, loving father, husband, and dear friend, but mostly an incredible, passionate human being, generous and immensely kind, Always …… Thank youuuu for the love you gave us all every day, Drake, on set and off. You were always our hero."
Christopher Sean, who played Paul Narita, John’s illegitimate son on the show, shared an emotional message on X, alongside a photo of John and Paul hugging. "I will always love you," Sean wrote. "You were more than just my TV father; in my eyes, you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true hero. Miss and love you so much, Drake. Rest in peace, Dad."
Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and initially dreamed of a career as a professional baseball player. He signed with the New York Yankees and played for one of their farm teams before an injury in 1977 derailed his athletic ambitions. Soon after, he turned to acting and found success in the early 1980s with a role in the CBS series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.