Drake Hogestyn, the actor who portrayed the notorious John Black on “Days of Our Lives” for nearly four decades, died on September 28, 2024, in Los Angeles, California, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 70 years old, passing just one day before his 71st birthday.

Born on September 29, 1953, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn’s path to soap opera stardom was unconventional. He attended the University of South Florida on a baseball scholarship, graduating with a double major in microbiology and applied sciences. His athletic prowess caught the attention of professional baseball scouts, leading to his selection by the New York Yankees in the final round of the 1976 MLB Draft.

Hogestyn played third base for the Yankees’ farm team, the Oneonta Yankees, until injuries derailed his sports career in 1978. During his time in Oneonta, he experienced memorable moments, including hitting a grand slam home run. Despite the setback, Hogestyn’s competitive spirit and determination would serve him well in his next career.

Following his baseball career, Hogestyn transitioned to acting after being selected for an acting training program with Columbia Pictures. His first major role came in the TV series “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” in the early 1980s.

In 1986, Hogestyn landed the role that would define his career, joining the cast of “Days of Our Lives” as a mysterious character known as “The Pawn.” This character was later revealed to be John Black, a role Hogestyn would play for the next 38 years, appearing in over 4,200 episodes.

Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black, a complex character with a background as a police officer, private investigator, and secret agent, quickly made him a fan favorite. His on-screen partnership with Deidre Hall, who played Dr. Marlena Evans, formed one of daytime television’s most beloved super couples, affectionately known to fans as “John and Marlena.”

Throughout his tenure on “Days of Our Lives,” Hogestyn’s performances earned him critical acclaim and multiple awards. He was a two-time winner of the Soap Opera Digest Award for Hottest Male Actor in 1994 and 1995, and he shared the award for Favorite Couple with Hall in 2005.

Hogestyn’s commitment to his craft and his character was evident both on and off the screen. Co-star Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on the show, remembered him as “an incredible man” who was “funny, generous, and thoughtful.” She noted, “He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set.”

His impact extended beyond his immediate co-stars. Genie Francis, who appeared on the show for two years, described Hogestyn as “such a wonderful and kind man,” adding, “It was a pleasure to work with him.”

Christopher Sean, who portrayed Hogestyn’s on-screen son, shared a heartfelt tribute: “I will always love you. You were more than just my TV father, in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero.”

Outside of “Days of Our Lives,” Hogestyn made guest appearances on other television shows, including “Criminal Minds.” He also starred in the Hallmark holiday movie “Christmas Tree Lane,” showcasing his versatility as an actor.

Despite his fame, Hogestyn remained connected to his roots. He was known to frequent Cindy’s Diner in his hometown of Fort Wayne and participated in the Mad Anthonys Pro-Am golf tournament in the 1990s.

Hogestyn’s personal life was as stable as his professional one. He married Victoria Post on December 31, 1986, and their union lasted until his death. Together, they raised four children: Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael, and Ben. At the time of his passing, Hogestyn was also a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren.

The official “Days of Our Lives” Instagram account announced Hogestyn’s passing, stating, “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.”

In a heartfelt post on Sunday morning, Melissa Reeves, known for her role as Jennifer Horton on “Days of Our Lives,” expressed her sorrow, saying, “Our hearts are heartbroken upon hearing of Drake’s passing. I feel blessed and grateful to have known such an incredible man.”

She shared that Hogestyn’s final message to her was to “love and cherish our time with our grandchildren, as that was always where your heart lay. Family first,” concluding her tribute with the sentiment, “There are not enough words.”

Drake Hogestyn’s legacy in the world of daytime television is indelible. His portrayal of John Black captivated audiences for generations, making him a household name and a cherished figure in the entertainment industry. As fans and colleagues mourn his loss, they also celebrate the lasting impact he made on “Days of Our Lives” and the soap opera genre as a whole.