Inside Drake Hogestyn’s Final Days of Our Lives Episode Before His Death at 70

Before his death, Drake Hogestyn managed to conclude his legacy Days of our lives in a touching way.

On Sept. 28, PEOPLE confirmed that the actor, who famously played John Black for 38 years, died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 70. Despite the circumstances behind his tragic death, a rep for the long-running soap confirmed that Hogestyn’s last episode on DOL aired weeks earlier on September 9.

As his film grandson Tate (Leo Howard) battles his love interest Holly (Ashley Puzemis) to find out who is responsible for her father’s death, Hogestyn’s John offers Tate words of comfort and advice as the fate of his relationship hangs in the balance.

Drake Hogestyn, longtime Days of our lives Old, dies at the age of 70 from pancreatic cancer

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

Drake Hogestyn.

Pascal Le Segretain/Getty

In an attempt to take Tate’s mind off the drama, John suggested giving Holly some “space.” When his best efforts didn’t work, he suggested Tate send Holly a text, letting her know he was on his mind.

“You know what? I have a feeling I’m not doing a very good job taking your mind off things,” John said with a smile. “It can’t hurt to check in with her just to let her know you’re thinking of her. I’m sure she’ll appreciate just knowing you’re there for her if she needs you.”

Matt LeBlanc Days of our lives Character in Friends It was named after the late soap opera star Drake Hogestyn

Tate texted Holly but doubted she would take him up on his offer to talk. When his grandson shared his concerns and skepticism, John reassured him, “He will [read it]. And I’m sure she’ll accept you when she’s ready.”

Hogestyn joined Days of our lives in 1986 as the mysterious character known as “The Pawn” before becoming a fan favorite as John Black.

John has been one half of several beloved couples over the years, but few have been more popular than his relationship with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall. Together, they won the Soap Opera Digest Favorite Couple Award in 2005.

(L) Drake Hogestyn and Deidre Hall.

Mitchell Haaseth / NBC / Courtesy of the Everett Collection

Tribute to celebrities who died in 2024

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

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” it read. “He found himself in the throes of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination. After an incredible fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by his loved ones.”

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The statement continued: “He was the most amazing husband, father, dad and actor. He loved performing for ‘Dana’ audiences and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the business. We love him and will miss him all the days of our lives .”

The message was signed “The Hogestyn Family”.

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Source: HIS Education