Days of Our Lives star Drake Hogestyn dies at age 70

“Days of Our Lives” star Drake Hogestyn has died. He was 70.

The Hogestyn family confirmed in a statement to TODAY.com that the actor died on September 28, just a day before his 71st birthday, after an “incredible battle” with cancer.

“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,” the statement said. “After an incredible fight, he passed away 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 business.”

The family’s statement ended by saying they will love and miss Hogestyn “all the days of our lives.”

Days of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday called Hogestyn’s death “a very difficult death for all of us.”

“Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not enough words to express how much he will be missed,” Corday said in a statement to TODAY.com. “His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”

The family noted that Hogestyn, who played John Black on the popular soap opera, is survived by his wife Victoria; her four children, Rachael, Ben, Whitney and Alexandra; and seven grandchildren.

The show’s official Instagram account shared the same statement from Hogestyn’s family, and many other Days of Our Lives actors took to the comments section to pay tribute.