'Days of Our Lives' star dead at 70

Drake Hogestyn, the lover Days of our lives Star who played John Black for 38 years has died. He was 70.

The actor was just a day shy of his 71st birthday when he died on September 28, 2024, PEOPLE confirms.

The popular soap opera shared a statement from the actor's family on social media.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” it said. “He experienced the turning point of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he rose to the challenge with incredible strength and determination.” After putting up an incredible fight, he died peacefully surrounded by his loved ones.

The statement continued: “He was the greatest husband, father, dad and actor. He loved performing for the 'Days' audience and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the industry. We love him and we will miss him all the days of our lives.”

The message was signed “The Hogestyn Family.”

“This is a very difficult matter for all of us” Days of our lives said executive producer Ken Corday in a statement to PEOPLE. “Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not enough words to express how much we will miss him. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”

Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn initially pursued a career as a professional baseball player, even signing with the New York Yankees and playing for one of their farm teams until he was injured in 1977.

Hogestyn's first major role was in the CBS series in the early 1980s Seven brides for seven brothers. He joined first Days of our lives In 1986 as a mysterious character called “The Pawn” before becoming a fan favorite as John Black.

John has been a part of several popular pairings over the years, but few have been more popular than his pairing with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall. Together they won a Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005.

However, Hogestyn was not only known for his long-standing role. He and his childhood sweetheart, Victoria Post, married in 1986 and remained married for 37 years. They welcomed four children – daughters Whitney, Alexandra and Rachael and son Ben – and have seven grandchildren.

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The actor's DOOL The co-stars quickly took to social media to share their memories.

“Drake was an incredible man,” Alison Sweeney wrote on Instagram. “He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved.” daysthe fans and shared this passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant everything to him. He was such a big part of my life days. I will miss him terribly and appreciate every story, joke and hug.

Kristian Alfonso wrote: “I will always remember you as a loving, loving father, husband and dear friend, but most of all as an incredible, passionate person, generous and immensely kind. Always…Thank you for the love you gave us all every day, Drake.” You were always our hero on and off set.

Christopher Sean, who played John's illegitimate son Paul Narita, wrote a touching tribute to X along with a photo from the show of John and Paul hugging.

“I will always love you,” he said. “You were more than just my TV dad, you were my dad in my eyes. Thank you for everything you have taught me and the love you have given me. The world has lost a true hero. Miss and love you so much, Drake. Rest in peace.” Dad.”

Genie Francis noted: “So sad to hear of Drake Hogestyn’s passing. Such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure working with him. I always loved how much he loved his wife and children.”