‘Days of Our Lives’ Veteran Was 70

Drake Hogestyn, a Days of Our Lives veteran who played John Black for nearly four decades, has died. He was 70.

The actor’s family shared a statement on the long-running soap opera’s official Instagram account, announcing he died after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement read. “He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination. After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones. He was the most 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.”

Hogestyn first appeared on Days of Our Lives in 1986. He played John Black up until his death, with a hiatus from 2009 to 2011, and starred in more than 4,200 episodes of NBC’s popular soap opera.

His other acting credits included Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Generation, Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues, One Stormy Night, Christmas Tree Lane and Night Sins. Hogestyn also had guest roles in episodes of Criminal Minds and Otherworld.

Ken Corday, executive producer of Days of Our Lives, wrote in a tribute, per Soap Opera Digest, “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.”