Drake Hogestyn death: Days Of Our Lives star dies aged 70 after battle with pancreatic cancer

Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Hogestyn, who played John Black in the long-running NBC soap, died aged 70 following an “unbelievable fight” with pancreatic cancer, his family announced. In a statement posted to the official Days Of Our Lives Instagram account, the family said: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. “I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke & every hug.” open image in gallery Mary Beth Evans and Drake Hogestyn speak onstage during the 50th Daytime Emmy Awards in 2023 Kristian Alfonso, who played Hope Williams Brady, said she will always remember her late co-star as a “loving father, husband and dear friend, but mostly an incredible, passionate human being, generous and immensely kind, always”. Rest in peace my sweet friend.” Actor Christopher Sean, who played Hogestyn’s on-screen son Paul Narita, shared a video collage of images of them together as he also paid tribute on Instagram.