Drake Hogestyn, best known to South African audiences as John Black from the long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives, died on Saturday, 28 September 2024. He was 70.
Story Summary:
- Drake Hogestyn, known for his role as John Black, passed away at age 70.
- He fought pancreatic cancer before passing surrounded by loved ones.
- Tributes are pouring in from fans and colleagues worldwide.**
Drake Hogestyn dies: What’s the cause of death?
According to a statement released by his family via Days of Our Lives, Hogestyn had been battling pancreatic cancer.
“He faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination,” the family shared, adding that he passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loved ones.
Executive Producer Ken Corday said in a statement:
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“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.”
Drake Hogestyn biography
Born Donald Drake Hogestyn on 29 September 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn was originally on track for a career in baseball.
He attended the University of South Florida on a baseball scholarship, majoring in pre-dentistry, and was later drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees.
However, an injury in 1977 ended his promising baseball career.
Hogestyn transitioned into acting after entering a Columbia Pictures talent search, where he was one of 30 out of 75,000 entrants selected.
He made his TV debut in the 1982 series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, playing Ben McFadden.
He continued to take on smaller roles before joining Days of Our Lives in 1986 as The Pawn, a role that would evolve into John Black, and cement his place as a soap opera legend.
His portrayal of John Black became iconic, making him a fan favourite, especially with his on-screen chemistry with co-star Deidre Hall, who played Marlena Evans.
The couple’s enduring romance made them one of the most popular “supercouples” in soap opera history.
Throughout his career, Hogestyn won several awards, including multiple Soap Opera Digest Awards.
In his personal life, Drake Hogestyn married his childhood sweetheart, Victoria, and they had four children together.
Reactions to Hogestyn’s death
Reactions to Hogestyn’s passing have been heartfelt, with fans and co-stars paying tribute to the man who brought John Black to life.
Deidre Hall, his longtime Days of Our Lives co-star, posted, “Drake was a friend, an inspiration, and a beloved part of my life. He made every moment on set memorable.”
Fans have taken to social media, sharing scenes and moments that defined his legacy.
Here are some of our top picks:
