"Days of Our Lives Icon Drake Hogestyn (John) Passes Away at 70"

 One of daytime television's most cherished stars, Drake Hogestyn (John Black) from Days of Our Lives, passed away on September 28, 2024, just one day shy of his 71st birthday.

In a statement released by the Hogestyn family through DAYS, they expressed:

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. After being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he faced this challenge with remarkable strength and determination. After an incredible battle, he peacefully departed surrounded by loved ones. He was an amazing husband, father, grandfather, and actor. He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with an exceptional cast and crew. We love him and will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”

Executive Producer Ken Corday remarked, “This is a profound loss for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player, and words cannot fully capture how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, both personally and professionally, was immense and will always remain unparalleled.”

A Life of Legacy

Born Donald Drake Hogestyn in Fort Wayne, Indiana, on September 27, 1953, Hogestyn moved away after high school to attend the University of South Florida on a baseball scholarship. He majored in pre-dentistry, earning a double degree in microbiology and applied sciences with aspirations of becoming an oral surgeon. However, after college, he was drafted by two Major League Baseball teams: the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees. He chose to sign with the Yankees, playing third base for one of their farm teams in Oneonta, NY.

An injury in 1977 cut short his baseball career, leading him to enter a nationwide talent search by Columbia Pictures, where he was selected from 75,000 entrants for an acting training program in Los Angeles. He made his television debut in the 1982 CBS series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, portraying Ben McFadden, one of the seven brothers.

Following that show, he took on several roles, including a character named Kort in CBS's short-lived sci-fi series Otherworld in 1985. In 1984, he auditioned for Guiding Light but did not land the role. The next year, he was invited to audition for Days of Our Lives. Initially, he approached the audition with a lack of enthusiasm, as his heart was back in Indiana with his future wife, Victoria. However, a change in attitude helped him succeed: he walked into the audition with determination and confidence.

Hogestyn debuted on Days of Our Lives on January 24, 1986. Reflecting on his first day, he noted feeling overwhelmed but learned from watching the experienced cast members. His chemistry with Deidre Hall, who portrayed Marlena Evans, ultimately transformed what was intended to be a short-term role into a lasting character.

Throughout his career, Hogestyn's dedication and charisma made a significant impact on the soap opera community. He enjoyed a rich personal life, marrying Victoria and raising their four children in California. In a 2018 interview, he shared his thoughts on maintaining a long-lasting marriage, saying, “Stay married! You just stay married and fall in love with that same person over and over again.”

Drake Hogestyn leaves behind his wife, Victoria, their children Rachael, Ben, Whitney, Alexandra, and their partners, along with seven grandchildren.

Soap Opera Digest extends its heartfelt condolences to Hogestyn’s family and friends. His presence will be profoundly missed.