Days of Our Lives star Drake Hogestyn, who appeared on the show for 38 years, died Saturday, his family confirmed. He was 70 years old.
Hogestyn was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and his family said in a statement that he died after an “incredible battle” with the disease.
“He was the most amazing husband, father, dad and actor. He was honored to perform in front of the ‘Days’ audience and share the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the industry. “I loved it so much,” the statement, signed “The Hogestyn Family,” continued. “We love him and will miss him forever.”
Hogestyn died the day before his 71st birthday.
The actor joined the company in 1986 and played the beloved character John Black in more than 4,200 episodes of the hit soap opera. Just four years ago, he entered the world of television with a role in Seven Brothers for Seven Brides. Although he appeared in several other projects throughout his career, his most synonymous are long-running soap opera roles.
His last appearance on the show was in an episode that aired on September 9th. On Days of Our Lives, Hogestyn’s character John and Malena Evans (played by Deirdre Hall) were a long-time supercouple.
“This is very difficult for all of us,” said Days of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday. “Hogie was the ultimate team player and there are not enough words to express how deeply we will miss him. His impact on our program, both personally and professionally, will be profound. , will forever remain unparalleled.”
Hogestyn is survived by his wife, Victoria; their four children, Rachel, Ben, Whitney, Alexandra and their partners; and seven grandchildren.
Before becoming an actor, Hogestyn was a baseball player, playing for the New York Yankees’ minor league team.
Several Days of Our Lives cast members paid tribute to Hogestyn on social media, including Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady until 2014.
“Drake was a great guy. He was funny, generous, and thoughtful. He cared about every scene, every person. “He loved Days and the fans, and he captured that passion. “My heart breaks for his family. They meant everything to him. He was such a huge part of my life on Days,” Sweeney wrote on Instagram. I miss him so much and cherish every story, every joke, every hug.”
Christian Alfonso, who played Hope Williams Brady, shared a video montage featuring photos of her and Hogestyn. She wrote in the caption that Hogestyn was a “hero” to the cast.
“I will always remember you as a loving father, husband, and dear friend, but above all as an incredibly passionate human being, always generous and extremely kind,” she wrote on Instagram. wrote on the gram.
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