The Days of our Lives family and the soap world is in mourning on the news of the passing of Drake Hogestyn who for almost 40 years played the role of John Black and in all of the character’s different incarnations. Drake died on Saturday, one day before what would have been his 71st birthday today on September 29th from his battle with pancreatic cancer.

An outpouring of remembrances, tributes and grief have been posted on social media platforms for many of Drake’s former DAYS co-stars and present cast members, all who shared their love and sorrow for the passing of this truly one-of-a-kind very special colleague and friend.

As many know, Drake was drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals and then the New York Yankees as the final pick in the 1970 draft, and had intended to become a major league baseball player when an injury derailed his career. Next, Drake decided to give acting a go and landed an opportunity to be be selected for the acting training program with Columbia Pictures and the next part of his journey is Days of our Lives history when he joined the cast in 1986.

Photo: JPI

Now below, check out the tributes and heartfelt posts from many of Drake’s co-stars who worked with him in many memorable storylines and scenes throughout his enduring run in Salem.

Christopher Sean (Paul): “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. ‘Keep Swinging for the Fences.’Drake Hogestyn”

Photo: JPI

Eric Martsolf (Brady): “This shot was taken fairly early in my Days career; uncertain of my place within the historic family and so anxious to “fit in”. He placed his hand on my shoulder, as he would for the next 16 years as my tv Dad, and said “you got this kid.” He ingratiated me into his soap opera family instantly, and was a big reason why I have made it my home to this day. His kindness, storytelling, and studliness is still unmatched. He was a man who wasn’t afraid to ‘feel’ and emote, a worthy lesson for all fathers to pass along. Our hallways at DOOL will never be the same without him strolling through them. I was honored to portray his son, and will continue to emulate his work ethic and spirit. The world will miss him, and I will continue to feel his hand on my shoulder always. God bless you, Drake.”

Alison Sweeney (Sami): “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 life at Days. I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke & every hug.”

Photo: JPI

Kristian Alfonso (Hope): “My heart. I’ll always remember u as a Loving father,husband&Dear friend but mostly an incredible passionate human being,generous &immensely kind, Always..Thank U4 the loveU gave us all everyday Drake on set&off Uwere always our hero. LoveU Rest in peace my sweet friend”

Christie Clark (ex-Carrie): To say I was one of the lucky ones is an understatement. Drake (aka Hoagie) was simply one of the best people I’ve ever met. I was essentially raised by Drake on the set of Days of our lives! He was my TV dad, who became my second real father. Being guided, nurtured, and taught by this man on set makes me feel incredibly fortunate. It’s astonishing how he took so many others under his wing. Drake had unmatched energy and made time for everyone. He gave all the crew and cast the same enthusiasm, creating a wonderful atmosphere on set! When he spoke to you, he truly listened and absorbed every word. If you told him a joke, he’d remember it for years. His collection of jokes and stories was unrivaled. Drake radiated light and positivity, crafting the beautiful life he had outside of work. Victoria and Drake loved each other deeply! That’s why he was so enjoyable to watch and became a fan favorite, along with Dee Hall. The audience felt his warmth and goodness and wanted more.
Sending massive healing thoughts to his beautiful family, of whom he was so unbelievably proud: Victoria, Whitney, Rachel, Ben, Alexandra, their new spouses, and all his fabulous new grandbabies! It was all for you!
Drake, I’ll always be your little pumpkin! I’m grateful to know I have a true angel looking out for me. ”

Genie Francis (ex-Diana): “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.”

Photo: NBC

Lauren Koslow (Kate): “Good-night, sweet prince; And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest. Drake, We will miss you forever and a day . We -friends, cast mates, crew & loyal fans , anyone who crossed your path – were touched by your joyful & passionate zest for life. Your courage. Your compassion. We admired your deep respect for your craft . We appreciated your leadership during hectic times. We saw your fulfillment in your abounding love & devotion for your beautiful Victoria , your children & family . Our hero on and off screen , a man’s man, a woman’s friend, You lit up every space with your presence, your laughter , positivity, & undeniable beauty …. And of course , your unparalleled storytelling. You shared your grace, kind heart , professionalism & passion for your art with us all and we are all better for it Sharing the stage with you was an honor & delight . definitely some of my favorite scenes EVER …Lastly thank you for all the gardening advice, horse & dog stories, kids & grand baby chats and the best ,deep down the rabbit hole kind of conversations that will stay with me forever .❤️💔❤️💔🥰 Blessed to know you, my friend.”

Courtesy/CBS

Mary Beth Evans (Kayla):“With such a heavy heart, I can’t really find the words today about the passing of this sweet, kind man. From the first day we met in the green room of Days of Our Lives in 1986, we were fast friends. Drake’s love and devotion to his forever sweetheart Victoria, his children and grandchildren was one of his most endearing qualities. Such a good, honest man. We are all in shock of the news we received yesterday. Drake Hogestyn, you will remain in my heart always. Sending so much love to you.”

Thaao Penghlis (Tony): “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”

Photo: JPI

Eileen Davidson (ex-Kristen and Susan Banks):“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.”

Tamara Braun (Ava): “What an honor it was to work with you, to get to know you, to hear your incredible stories. Your kindness and generosity of spirit were always exemplary. Your work ethic, your life ethic, family ethic…. Oh how you loved your family so deeply. I loved to watch your face light up while speaking about your wife, kids and grandkids. You beamed. My heart hurts the most for them. What a loss.💔 I’m so grateful that Days put you, me and Stephen together recently for a fun filled caper story. The three of us laughed so much while we ran lines, while we shot, while we played. We just laughed, laughed, laughed. What a treat. I will cherish that time and the memory of you. You, kind sir, sure did love life and knew how to enjoy all its gifts. Boy did I admire that in you. You are already greatly missed. Much love and respect always, Drake.”

Arianne Zucker (ex-Nicole): “Gentleman. That is the first thing I would say about Drake. A TRUE gentleman. Integrity, respect, kindness and love. He was truly authentic. He was a talker and someone I had always admired. He was the man who walked into the studio and made sure he spoke to everyone and made sure they were having a good day. If not, he told them a story that would change their day. He told so many stories of his days in baseball. He loved speaking to every single fan of the show… in length, but his wife was his love. Victoria and of course his children and grand babies was his purpose! I took today’s news today very difficult. This is the third person I have lost this year to cancer. Not just a year, but within three months. Cancer sucks. It’s so hard. If I have any advice to offer, love those close to you. Tell them often and respect the life you live!” Victoria, from my family to yours, we love you. ❤️

Photo: JPI

Melissa Reeves (Jennifer): Heartbroken is the condition of our hearts hearing of Drakes passing. Also blessed and grateful to know such a wonderful man. Thank you Drake for your example of professionalism at work for all of us to follow. Thank you for loving your precious Victoria and your children and grandchildren as we watched your family grow. Your stories of your adventurous life entertained us for so many years! Your last text to me was to love and cherish our time with our grandchildren and that was always the allegiance of your heart❤️ Family first. There are not enough words 💔

Michael Easton (ex-Tanner): “Mourning the loss of our friend Drake Hogestyn. Drake was talented and kind and a true gentleman. On my first day on set, I had no idea what I was doing and he knocked on my door, introduced himself and welcomed me to the show and I’ll never forget how much that meant to me. He loved talking about his family, dogs and baseball and he was loved by all who knew him. My deepest sympathies to his family, his friends, the cast and crew of DOOL and all of his fans. Rest in peace, brother. #drakehogestyn #dool”

Photo: JPI

Charles Shaughnessy (ex-Shane): “Baseball and life can be brutal and heartbreaking. The very best of us can be struck out way too soon. I didn’t get to work with Drake as often as I would have wished, but it was always so much fun when I did. Just thinking of him in an odd moment would bring a sudden smile to my face; it will always do so. Love you, man. Sleep with the Angels.”

Susan Seaforth Hayes (Julie): Drake was the easy going hero every woman hopes to cross her path in crisis or romance, the buddy every man hopes to never lose. A Days icon that kept America tuning in for 60 years & let me tell you friends, his Salem cast mates were his greatest fans of all.”

Photo: JPI

Martha Madison (Belle): “Today, the world lost a great man, Salem lost its greatest hero, and I lost one of my favorite scene partners. With a heart full of baseball, Drake was the embodiment of team spirit and mentored so many of us at #Days like a true team Captain. He was also a cheerleader. One of my favorite memories of Drake was from not too long ago. He knew I was super nervous as I was preparing to deliver a five page deathbed monologue, and after we finished the scene (both soaked in tears and snot), he gave me a huge hug and whispered, “Kid, it was like that moment when you hear the crack of the bat against a long ball that flies into the stands and the crowd goes wild.” I always knew if I was working with him that I would need to spend a little extra time on my scene prep. He was always off book and word perfect, and in 20 years I don’t think I ever remember him holding a script. More than that, he was always ready to play. He loved diving into our father/daughter dynamics, and there was no place I could go in a scene where he wasn’t exactly right there with me. Drake was full of enthusiasm and humor and aways told the most amazing stories. He loved being an actor and always showed grace and gratitude when it came to his work and his fans. He loved his family deeply and was over the moon to be a Grandfather.I’m sending my deepest sympathies to his family and to all of the cast, crew and fans who have loved him for decades.”

Dan Feuerriegel (EJ): “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.”

Photo: JPI

Staci Greason (ex-Isabella): “I awakened this morning to some very sad news. Drake Hogestyn was a wonderful person. He took me under his wing when I started on days of our lives and he never let me fall. He was funny and a hard worker. He always used baseball analogies because he played for the Yankees in the minors. He joked around with me a lot, especially during our love scenes. We were always laughing and had a deep affection for each other. He was the big brother I never had. My first and only tv husband. My heart hurts. All of my love goes out to his wife, Victoria, the love of his life, and their four children and seven grands. His many loyal fans. And his family on days of our lives. Drake, you’re playing in the majors now. Much love to you my friend ” She later added, “A true gentleman. My one and only tv husband. Very saddened by this news. You’re playing in the majors now, Drake, my friend. All of my love to Victoria and his family. And his loyal fans. “

Photo: JPI

Galen Gering (Rafe): “I was lucky enough to go on a special trip with Drake and represent Days in S Africa. We went from Johannesburg to Cape Town and had moments where thousands of people cheered for us to times walking on deserted beaches. The one constant in it all was Drake- always just awesome to be around. We laughed so much. I mean, my face hurt every day. We were in his element, surrounded by people and animals. The energy he had was contagious and people gravitated towards him. He always took time for everyone and made them to feel special.Drake was always such a great storyteller and I knew at some point on that trip we were creating one he would eventually tell. This adventure would be a square added to the extraordinary quilt of his life. One of the things Drake would often say among his many ‘isims’ was ,”…well that was a below average feeling.” And as I sit here and write this I can definitely relate. Thank you for the memories and the good times and being an incredible steward for the show. You are loved and you are missed. Sending my condolences to your beautiful family I know you cherished beyond measure. Rest in Peace my friend.”

Photo: JPI

Greg Vaughan (Eric): This was our last time together, giving a set tour of Days of Our Lives to family and friends of mine. And a few of our final messages. Drake was more than just a family man; he always made time for anyone & everyone! He was a wonderful storyteller, and most importantly, a loving and caring person. As a father figure to me and many of my costars, we shared our love for sports, and he always wanted to hear about my son’s life & sports! On set, Drake was never short of being a scene stealer but an amazing way of making everyone in the room feel loved, supported, and valued. It’s still hard to believe that he passed away a day before his 71st birthday. Like John Black, only Drake could have orchestrated such a dramatic exit. As I know he would want us all to celebrate his life and hold on to our fond memories. His voice will always stay with me, leaving a lasting impact. Happy Birthday and I love you, Drake. Godspeed ❤️”

George DelHoyo (ex-Orpheus): “Simply put, Drake was as gracious, kind, patient and generous a man as I’ve known His ultimely departure is felt as a deep loss to all who have had the privilege of sharing the stage with him. God hold and keep his sweet soul. And to you, his beloved family, I send my deepest condolences and love. Our world was better for him.”

Photo: JPI

Kyle Lowder (ex-Brady, Rex): “Drake Hogestyn was not only my TV dad, he was a real-life father figure to me. I began my career as a nervous 19 year old kid on @dayspeacock , having just moved to LA, and right before our very first scene he grabbed my shoulders and said, ‘I got you kid.’ And he had me. Every step of the way. Drake was one of the kindest, most generous men I’ve ever known, with an unparalleled enthusiasm for life. It’s brutally hard to accept the reality of his passing. I will deeply miss you, Drake. The world has truly lost one of the best. ”

Michael Fairman TV will continue to post remembrances by more of Drake’s co-stars, then and now, as they are posted on social media throughout the day.

What do you think of the touching remembrances shared by so many of Drake’s friends and castmates as they grieve the loss of this iconic star of DAYS? Share your thoughts and your remembrances via the comment section below.

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.
“Keep Swinging for the Fences.”Drake Hogestyn pic.twitter.com/NpRqGrgAbN

— Christopher Sean 🇺🇸 🇯🇵 (@ChristopherSean) September 29, 2024

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

 

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