The entertainment world is mourning the loss of Drake Hogestyn, the iconic actor who portrayed John Black on Days of Our Lives for decades. Hogestyn passed away at age 70 following complications from pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a legacy cherished by millions of viewers.
John Black—hero, lover, father, and one of Salem’s most unforgettable figures—became more than just a soap opera character. Thanks to Hogestyn’s charisma and emotional depth, he grew into a symbol of the golden era of daytime television. For many fans, his presence defined what made Days of Our Lives so compelling.
News of his passing spread rapidly through the Days community, and fan reactions were overwhelmingly emotional. Many expressed that they felt as if they had “lost a family member,” having grown up watching Hogestyn’s storylines unfold during some of the show’s most dramatic years.
The heartbreak comes on the heels of other emotional developments involving the show’s long-running cast, including recent updates on the health struggles of fellow star Suzanne Rogers.
Although his passing casts a shadow over Salem, the legacy Drake Hogestyn leaves behind will remain timeless. John Black will forever be remembered for his strength, passion, and resilience—qualities that helped make Days of Our Lives the powerhouse series it is today.
Fans believe that even though Drake Hogestyn is gone, his spirit will continue to live on through every storyline he shaped, every scene he elevated, and every viewer he touched across generations.
