Inside Drake Hogestyn’s FinalDays of Our LivesEpisode Before His Death at 70

Mar. 15, 2025

Drake Hogestyn.Photo:Todd Williamson/Peacock

Todd Williamson/Peacock

Before his death, Drake Hogestyn was able to conclude his legacy onDays of Our Liveson a poignant note.

On Sept. 28, PEOPLE confirmed that the actor, who famously played John Black for 38 years,died from pancreatic cancerat age 70. Despite the circumstances behind his tragic death, a rep for the longtime soap opera confirmed that Hogestyn’s final episode onDOOLaired weeks earlier on Sept. 9.

As his onscreen grandson Tate (Leo Howard) grappled with his love interest Holly (Ashley Puzemis) finding out who was responsible for her father’s death, Hogestyn’s John offered Tate words of comfort and advice as the fate of his relationship hung in the balance.

Tate shared that he and Holly were in the middle of a “pretty big fight” when he revealed that his Uncle Eric (Greg Vaughan) was responsible for her father’s death. The news shocked Holly, who Tate assumed already knew.

Drake Hogestyn.Pascal Le Segretain/Getty

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty

In trying to get Tate’s mind off the drama, John suggested he give Holly some “space.” When his best efforts didn’t work, he proposed Tate send Holly a message, letting her know she’s in his thoughts.

“You know what? I got a feeling I’m not doing a very good job picking your mind off things,” John said with a smile. “Can’t hurt to check in with her just to let her know you’re thinking about her. I’m sure that she will appreciate just knowing that you are there for her if she needs you.”

Tate texted Holly, but doubted she’d take him up on his offer to talk. When his grandson shared his worries and skepticisms, John assured him, “She will [read it]. And I am sure that she’s gonna take you up on it when she is ready.”

Hogestyn joinedDays of Our Livesin 1986 as a mysterious character known as “The Pawn” before becoming a fan favorite as John Black.

(L) Drake Hogestyn and Deidre Hall.Mitchell Haaseth / NBC / courtesy Everett Collection

Mitchell Haaseth / NBC / courtesy Everett Collection

In a statement shared to X (formerly known as Twitter), the popular soap opera shared a statement from Hogestyn’s family announcing the news of his death.

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The statement continued: “He was the most amazing husband, father, papa and actor. He loved performing for the ‘Days’ audience and sharing the stage with the greatest cast, crew, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”

The message was signed, “The Hogestyn family.”

source: people.com