In a heartbreaking loss for fans of daytime television, Drake Hogestyn, widely recognized for his portrayal of John Black on the iconic soap opera "Days of Our Lives," passed away on Saturday, just shy of his 71st birthday. His family revealed that he succumbed to pancreatic cancer in Los Angeles, as confirmed by his publicist, Andrea McKinnon.

Hogestyn first graced the screen on "Days of Our Lives" in 1986, shortly after the show began captivating audiences on NBC in 1965, set in the fictional Midwestern town of Salem. Initially introducing his character, Roman Brady, Hogestyn soon became synonymous with John Black—a complex figure known for his strength, loyalty, and a rich history as a spy, private investigator, and mercenary.

Over nearly four decades, Hogestyn immersed himself in his role, featuring in an astonishing 4,200 episodes. Viewers adored his rugged charm, often depicted as a heroic persona with the instincts of an intelligence agent, police officer, and detective. His dedication to the character was evident; in a 2020 interview, he reflected on the multiple evolutions of John Black, stating, “I’ve been through four identity changes, multiple wives and families on the show. The fire still burns for me. I’m still attached to the character and the show.”

Beyond his soap opera fame, Hogestyn had a brief career in professional baseball. After graduating, he was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals and later played for the New York Yankees' minor league affiliates in the late '70s. However, a significant injury prompted him to shift gears and embrace acting, leading to his legendary role on "Days of Our Lives."

Though his character was written out during budget cuts in 2009, Hogestyn's undeniable talent brought him back to the show in 2011. He continued to captivate fans when "Days of Our Lives" transitioned to the Peacock streaming service in 2022, with his latest appearance in June.

Hogestyn’s contributions to television extended beyond soap operas, including roles in the CBS musical series "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" (1982) and television movies like "Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues" (1985) and "One Stormy Night" (1992).

He leaves behind a cherished legacy, survived by his beloved wife, Victoria, their four children—Rachael, Ben, Whitney, and Alexandra—and seven grandchildren. As tributes pour in from fans and co-stars alike, the television community mourns the loss of a true icon who lived a life filled with passion, resilience, and unforgettable moments on screen.

Stay tuned for more updates on the impact of Drake Hogestyn’s legacy and how fans are honoring his memory.