“Days of Our Lives” soap star Drake Hogestyn died a day before his birthday

Longtime “Days of our Lives” star Drake Hogestyn died Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer — just a day shy of his 71st birthday.

Hogestyn, who played John Black on the hit soap opera for nearly 40 years, “passed away peacefully” surrounded by his loved ones, the show’s official Instagram account said.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement 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 an incredible fight, he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. He was the greatest husband, father, dad and actor. He loved performing in front of the Days audience and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the industry. We love him and will miss him all the days of our lives.”

Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana. According to Soap Opera Digest, he played college baseball at the University of South Florida and earned a double degree in microbiology and applied science.

He planned to become an oral surgeon, but was instead drafted by the Cardinals and then the Yankees, who selected Hogestyn in the final round of the 1976 MLB Draft. He played in the organization’s minor league system until injuries derailed his career.

“Those who can stay injury-free, keep their heads together and keep their weight down, those are the ones who will move up,” he told MiLB in 2020. “But if you get picked in the last round and are in the mix.” one Injury…there’s no investment there. And I knew that.”

He moved to Los Angeles after being selected for acting training at Columbia Pictures.

The actor was cast in the role of John Black – a mysterious police officer, private detective and secret agent in the series. Hogestyn starred in the hit soap opera for 38 years and directed over 4,200 episodes.

Her other credits include “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” a guest role on “Criminal Minds,” and the lead role in the Hallmark holiday film “Christmas Tree Lane.”

Hogestyn’s castmates remembered the actor as an “incredible man.”

Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on the series, wrote on X: “Drake was an incredible man. He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days and the fans and shared that 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 at Days. I will miss him terribly and cherish every story, joke and hug.”

“I will always love you. You were more than just my TV dad, in my eyes you were my father. Thank you for everything you taught me and for the love you gave me. The world has one “I miss and love you so much, Drake. Rest in peace, dad,” said Christopher Sean, who played his TV son on “DOOL.”

“It’s so sad to hear of the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” said Genie Francis, who appeared on the show for two years. “Such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure working with him. I always loved how much he loved his wife and children.”

He is survived by his wife Victoria Post, his four children Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael and Ben, and seven grandchildren.