Drake Hogestyn, the actor finest recognized for his portrayal of John Black on the enduring cleaning soap opera Days of Our Lives, has handed away on the age of 70, only a day earlier than his 71st birthday.
Hogestyn, born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, initially pursued a profession in baseball, signing with the New York Yankees and enjoying for considered one of their farm groups. Nevertheless, an damage in 1977 pressured him to pivot to appearing.His appearing profession took off within the early Eighties, making his TV debut in CBS’ Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
In 1986, Hogestyn joined Days of Our Lives as “The Pawn,” ultimately changing into a fan favorite as John Black. His on-screen pairing with Marlena Evans, performed by Deidre Hall, captivated audiences and earned them a Cleaning soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005. Hogestyn took a short hiatus from the present from 2009-2011 however returned to the character till his passing.
The information of Hogestyn’s dying was confirmed by the present’s social media account, which shared: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was identified with pancreatic most cancers, however he confronted the problem with unbelievable energy and dedication. After placing up an unbelievable battle, he handed peacefully surrounded by family members.”
Govt producer Ken Corday expressed his deep sorrow, stating: “It is a very tough one for all of us. Hogey was the final word workforce participant, and there should not adequate phrases to specific how deeply he might be missed. His influence on our present, personally and professionally, was profound and can without end stay unmatched.”
Off-screen, Hogestyn was married to Victoria Submit for 37 years. That they had 4 youngsters: Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael, and Ben. His household additionally mirrored on his life, saying: “He was probably the most wonderful husband, father, papa, and actor. He beloved performing for the Days viewers and sharing the stage with the best forged, crew, and manufacturing workforce within the enterprise.”
Colleague Nancy Lee Grahn, from Normal Hospital, wrote on X, “My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s household, pals, and followers. What a beautiful, pretty gracious man.”