Drake Hogestyn, the actor greatest identified for his portrayal of John Black on the long-lasting 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 taking part in for one in all their farm groups. Nevertheless, an damage in 1977 compelled 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 turning 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 demise 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 unimaginable energy and willpower. After placing up an unbelievable struggle, he handed peacefully surrounded by family members.”
Govt producer Ken Corday expressed his deep sorrow, stating: “This can be a very tough one for all of us. Hogey was the final word workforce participant, and there should not ample phrases to specific how deeply he will likely be missed. His impression on our present, personally and professionally, was profound and can eternally 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 superb 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 Common Hospital, wrote on X, “My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s household, buddies, and followers. What a stunning, pretty gracious man.”
