Deidre Hall's Emotional Tribute

Deidre Hall, cherished star of the long-running soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” has broken her silence in a poignant tribute to her friend and co-star, Drake Hogestyn, who tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer at the age of 70.

In an emotional statement to Access Hollywood just days after Hogestyn's passing, Hall reflected on her nearly four-decade-long partnership with Hogestyn, who portrayed John Black—Marlena Evans's (Hall’s character) enduring love interest. Hall expressed, “For nearly 4 decades, Marlena Evans and I have loved the same man,” emphasizing the profound connection they both had with their on-screen character.

Celebrating Drake Hogestyn’s Contributions

Hall described Hogestyn as the “iconic hero” of the show, tirelessly rescuing Marlena from numerous villains. She praised his professionalism, recalling, “My acting partner was incredibly professional from the moment he entered the studio; flawless in his preparation and ready for any eventuality in any scene.”

The actress highlighted Hogestyn's kindness, noting how he was gracious to everyone on set and shared a deep love for both his family and his favorite sports team, the New York Yankees. “Drake loved what he did and adored and respected everyone with whom he did it,” she said. “Victoria and their children were truly the center of his life. He is dearly loved by everyone who ever knew him and he will be missed beyond measure,” Hall poignantly concluded.

A Legacy in Daytime Television

Hogestyn’s portrayal of John Black on “Days of Our Lives” spanned nearly 40 years, marking him as a staple in the lives of many fans who grew up watching the show. His romance with Hall’s character became one of the most celebrated pairs in daytime television history.

Their working relationship didn’t just define the show; it also brought long-lasting themes about love and perseverance to the forefront. Hall had previously shared, “We’re the couple that teaches you that people stay together through thick and thin, and they stay loving, and they stay sensual and sexual, and that’s worth fighting for.” This sentiment resonated deeply with fans — allowing them to suspend disbelief and connect intimately with their story.

Reflections from the Show and Colleagues

Hogestyn himself once said, “I think John and Marlena epitomize sacrifice to each other and overcoming all of the obstacles that every couple faces.” Their depiction of love was more than a performance; it became a beacon of hope for viewers.

On September 28, Hogestyn succumbed to pancreatic cancer, having filmed his last episode on September 9. Following the sad news of his passing, many of Hall's co-stars, including Kristian Alfonso, Genie Francis, and Alison Sweeney, took to social media to honor his memory.

A Heartfelt Tribute from 'Days of Our Lives'