‘Days of Our Lives’ actor John Black was 70 years old

Drake Hogestyn, who played John Black on “Days of Our Lives” for 38 years, has died from pancreatic cancer.

The actor’s family announced the news through a statement published on the Instagram account of the long-running soap opera.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. “He was thrown into the curveball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination,” the statement read. “After putting up an incredible fight, he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. He was the most incredible husband, father, dad and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and crew in the business. “We love him and will miss him every day of our lives.”

Hogestyn first appeared on “Days of Our Lives” on January 24, 1986. He then played John Black, the mysterious and heroic spy, mercenary, police officer, private investigator and secret agent, in more than 4,200 episodes of the show. NBC. soap opera (which, since 2022, has aired episodes on Peacock). Along with Deidre Hall as Marlena Evans, Hogestyn helped form one of daytime television’s most famous romances.

Hogestyn’s credits outside of “Days of Our Lives” included the CBS musical series “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and a handful of television movies in the 1980s and ’90s, including “Generation,” “Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues “, “One Stormy.” Night” and “Sins of the night”.

Kassie DePaiva, who played Eve on “Days of Our Lives,” paid tribute to Hogestyn on social media, writing on X: “I am so saddened by this news. One of the nicest people I’ve ever worked with. What a wonderful life he lived. We will miss him. “He made the world a better place.”