UPDATED: Days of Our Lives star Drake Hogestyn was remembered Saturday by fellow daytime drama actors as an “incredible man” who “cared about every single scene.”
Hogestyn, who died at age 70 from pancreatic cancer, was described as “wonderful and kind man” whose commitment to DOOL was just as important as its fans. Hogestyn, who played the beloved John Black, first joined the NBC sudser in 1986 and continued with it once it moved from NBC to Peacock.
He and Deidre Hall (Marlena Evans) were one of daytime drama’s super couples that kept fans coming back day after day to DOOL. As his family said Saturday in a statement, “He loved performing for the Days audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business.”
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In an emotional post Sunday morning, Melissa Reeves, who playedJennifer Horton on DOOL, wrote, “Heartbroken is the condition of our hearts hearing of Drake’s passing. Also blessed and grateful to know such a wonderful man.”
She revealed that Hogestyn’s last text to her “was to love and cherish our time with our grandchildren and that was always the allegiance of your heart. Family first,” ending her tribute with “There are not enough words.”
Among those paying tribute Saturday from DOOL cast was also Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady), his former DOOL castmate who remembered the “passion” he had for “everyone on set.”
Drake was an incredible man. He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every single scene, every person. He loved Days, 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 huge part of my… pic.twitter.com/RAzQOH5GrI
— Alison Sweeney (@Ali_Sweeney) September 29, 2024
We shared much over the years John Tony & Andre. Great stories were told. To his family, to Deidre & Days so sorry for ur great loss. We will remember him well even though our hearts bleed. Drake thank you & May this next journey be one of great enlightenment. RIP pic.twitter.com/DNgWC2RUIB
— Thaao Penghlis (@ThaaoPenghlis) September 29, 2024
Drake 🤍 Thank you. You made all of us better. My love goes out to your family, your fans, and to everyone in Salem⌛️ pic.twitter.com/fvSi5gukh5
— Colton Little (@mrcoltonlittle) September 29, 2024
So sad to hear of Drake Hogestyn’s passing. Such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure to work with him. I always loved how much he loved his wife and children.
— Genie Francis (@GenieFrancis) September 29, 2024
— Kyle Brandt (@KyleBrandt) September 29, 2024I am so sad.
Drake was the best. The best.
I had a storyline with Drake in 2003. I was the clueless neophyte. He was the venerable legend. And he could not have been cooler, more helpful, or more wonderful. I am so sad. https://t.co/SUZkilYoEV
When I heard the news about Drake Hogestyn's passing I felt kicked in the gut. A truly one of a kind. So kind, hilarious & talented. Loved his family so much. I know he's up there telling one of his many stories. Thanks for the laughs Drake. I'll always love and miss you. XO.
— Eileen Davidson (@eileen_davidson) September 29, 2024
My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn's family, friends and fans. What a lovely, lovely gracious man.
— Nancy Lee Grahn (@NancyLeeGrahn) September 29, 2024
Sending prayers and love to the family of Drake Hogestyn. He was a talent, a gentleman, and most of all a good human being. RIP Drake 🙏🏼@DaysPeacock @daysofourlives
— Mike Manning (@mike_manning_) September 29, 2024
I will always love you. You were more than just my tv father, in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero. Miss and love you so much Drake. Rest in Peace Dad.
— Christopher Sean 🇺🇸 🇯🇵 (@ChristopherSean) September 29, 2024
“Keep Swinging for the Fences.”Drake Hogestyn pic.twitter.com/NpRqGrgAbN
I’m so saddened by this news. One of the kindest people I have ever worked with. What an amazing life he lived. He will be missed. He made the world a better place. RIP Drake 🙏🏻 https://t.co/TeLoImpM2w
— Kassie DePaiva (@KassieDePaiva) September 29, 2024
He was such a beautiful man. Always made me feel welcomed and part of the family. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and those who’s lives he touched ♥️ https://t.co/kK9tUwhh64
— 🅳🅰🅽 🅵🅴🆄🅴🆁🆁🅸🅴🅶🅴🅻 (@DgFeuerriegel) September 29, 2024
Condolences to the family, friends, and fans who’ve watched Drake dedicate almost four decades to #Days. He will be missed. Heaven got a real one. Godspeed 🕊️ 💙 pic.twitter.com/NaAFlcxN3i
— Lamon Archey (@LamonArchey) September 29, 2024
This makes me so sad. Rest well, sir. Your work here is done. https://t.co/SrPWOUIRxU
— Michele Val Jean (@MicheleValJean) September 29, 2024
Our condolences to the @DaysPeacock family on the passing of DAYS legend Drake Hogestyn. https://t.co/aVprRbnYzq
— Young & The Restless (@YRInsider) September 29, 2024
Just seeing the news on Drake Hogestyn. RIP Drake. I know a lot of people are very sad this evening. Condolences to all who loved him. Family. Friends. Fans. #DaysCommunity #Days Been a rough few years in Daytime.
— William deVry (@WilliamdeVry1) September 29, 2024
— Kristen Renton (@KristenRenton) September 29, 2024Rest in love sir… it was an honor and a privilege to have worked with you 💔
Days of Our Lives Superstar Drake Hogestyn (John) Dies At 70 – Soap Opera Digest https://t.co/mnn278YmXM
I don’t think you could find anyone who had ever met Drake Hogestyn who didn’t like him. I didn’t know him well, but our paths crossed many times. I always found a warm, accessible, friendly and very, very funny man. The world is a lesser place without him. R.I.P. #FlightOfAngels… pic.twitter.com/L2WyuhBzL9
— Jon Lindstrom (@thejonlindstrom) September 29, 2024
I am so saddened by this news. May God shower him with His grace and comfort all who loved him . Rest in peace, Drake. https://t.co/VvDphPlB4F
— Doug Davidson (@DougDavidsonYR) September 29, 2024
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