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A former Hallmark star and fan-favorite soap opera star has died at the age of 70. Drake Hogestyn starred in the 2020 Hallmark film “Christmas Tree Lane” and was on “Days of Our Lives” for decades.
Hogestyn’s family shared, “After putting in an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”
Drake Hogestyn Had Pancreatic Cancer
Hogestyn’s family shared the heartbreaking news via a statement posted on the “Days of Our Lives” Instagram page on September 28.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement began.
The statement continued, “He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination.”
The family praised him, saying, “He was the most amazing husband, father, papa, and actor.”
They added, “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.”
Hogestyn’s Acting Career Stretched Over 4 Decades
In addition to starring in “Christmas Tree Lane” with Andrew Walker and Alicia Witt, Hogestyn played John Black/Roman Brady on “Days of Our Lives” in over 4,000 episodes.
As his IMDb page indicates, Hogestyn joined “Days of Our Lives” in 1986. He also appeared in “Days of Our Lives: Beyond Salem” for six episodes, and “Days of Our Lives: A Very Salem Christmas.”
The last episode of “Days of Our Lives” Hogestyn appeared in aired on June 11.
Hogestyn’s acting career began in 1982 with a role in “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.”
The actor appeared in a few other projects over the years, including playing Benjamin Reilly in “Christmas Tree Lane.” However, most of his acting work happened on “Days of Our Lives.”
Fans Shared Their Love & Support for the Hogestyn Family
Hogestyn’s fans were heartbroken to learn of his death.
“Oh my gosh this is such shocking news. I [am] just dumbfounded by the news. I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut…Drake is an amazing actor and so beloved as a human,” one fan wrote on Instagram.
“I’m so thankful for all his hard work on the show. He will be missed,” another shared.
“Rest peacefully Drake. You were a gift to so many. Sending love to the Hogestyn family,” someone else wrote.
“Praying for ALL who loved him. This is so heartbreaking and he will definitely be missed,” read a separate comment.
Daytime Confidential shared a statement from Ken Corday, the executive producer for “Days of Our Lives.”
“This is a very difficult one for us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed,” Corday shared.
Per Daytime Confidential, Corday’s statement continued, “His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”
As Daytime Confidential noted, Hogestyn is survived by his wife, Victoria, and four children.
The couple had three daughters and a son, Rachael, Ben, Whitney, and Alexandria. In addition, Hogestyn had seven grandchildren.
Hogestyn would have celebrated his 71st birthday on September 29.
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