Days of Our Lives Superstar Drake Hogestyn (John) Dies at 70

By Mara Levinsky
September 28, 2024

One of daytime television’s most cherished stars, Drake Hogestyn, known for his role as John Black on Days of Our Lives, passed away on September 28, 2024, just a day shy of his 71st birthday.

In a heartfelt statement released by the Hogestyn family, they shared:

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he faced his illness with incredible strength and determination. After an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

He was an amazing husband, father, papa, and actor. He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business.

We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”

Executive Producer Ken Corday expressed his sorrow, stating, “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.”

A Legendary Life

Born Donald Drake Hogestyn on September 29, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn left home after high school to pursue a baseball scholarship at the University of South Florida. He majored in pre-dentistry, graduating with a double major in microbiology and applied sciences, with plans to become an oral surgeon. However, after being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals and New York Yankees, he chose to sign with the Yankees and played third base for one of their farm teams in Oneonta, NY.

An injury in 1977 ended his baseball career, prompting Hogestyn to enter a nationwide talent search by Columbia Pictures, where he was one of 30 actors chosen from 75,000 entrants. He made his television debut in the 1982 series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.

After various roles in primetime television, Hogestyn auditioned for Days of Our Lives in 1985, initially skeptical about the job because his heart was still in Indiana with his future wife, Victoria. However, he decided to give it his all and won the role of John Black, making his debut on January 24, 1986.

Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black quickly became iconic, especially due to his chemistry with Deidre Hall, who played Marlena Evans. Initially intended to be a short-term character, John Black became a central figure in Days, thanks to Hogestyn's talent and popularity.

Over the years, Hogestyn navigated various storylines and relationships on the show, earning a devoted fanbase and respect from colleagues. He married Victoria and together they raised four children: Rachael, Ben, Whitney, and Alexandra.

Despite facing challenges, including being dropped from the cast in 2009 only to be rehired in 2011, Hogestyn remained a beloved figure in daytime television. He continued to bring depth to his character and engage with fans, often reflecting on the unique duality of his life as both an actor and a family man.

In recent years, Hogestyn opened up about his struggles, including brain injuries in 2016, yet remained positive and grateful for the opportunities he had in his career.

Drake Hogestyn is survived by his wife, Victoria, their four children, and seven grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, both personally and through the screen.

Soap Opera Digest extends our deepest condolences to Hogestyn’s loved ones. His legacy will forever be a cherished part of Days of Our Lives.

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