'Days of Our Lives' star Drake Hogestyn dies just day before 71st birthday after losing battle to cancer

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Drake Hogestyn, the actor known for his role in the soap opera 'Days of Our Lives', has died battling pancreatic cancer just a day before his 71st birthday.

The soap opera's official X page announced the news and wrote, "It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. 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. After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones."

The statement further read, "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."

Drake Hogestyn's life and career

Drake Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and initially began a career as a professional baseball player. He also signed with the New York Yankees and played for one of their farm teams until he was injured in 1977, per PEOPLE.

The late actor's first big role came in the early 1980s in the CBS series 'Seven Brides for Seven Brothers'. He joined 'Days of Our Lives' in 1986 as 'The Pawn' before becoming John Black.

He became one-half of many beloved pairings over the years, but his most popular connection has been with Marlena Evans, played by Deidre Hall. They also won a Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple back in 2005.

He married his childhood love Victoria Post in 1986 and remained married for 37 years. The couple had four children: Whitney, Alexandra, and Rachael, and a son, Ben.

Internet remembers Drake Hogestyn in heartfelt tributes

Many people on the internet, including celebrities, paid heartfelt tribute to the late actor after his demise from battling pancreatic cancer just a day before his 71st birthday.

Actress Alison Sweeney wrote on Instagram, "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."

The 'Days of Our Lives' co-actor Kristian Alfonso also wrote on Instagram, "I’ll always remember you as a Loving, Loving father, husband and Dear friend but mostly an incredible, passionate human being, generous and immensely kind, Always …… Thank youuuu for the love you gave us all everyday Drake on set and off you were always our hero."

Some tributes from fans read, "So saddened to hear this, he was a wonderful actor and well be greatly missed," and, "So sad. Not an easy way to go. My brother passed from this. I enjoyed his character and him in the role."

A person also stated, "RIP Drake. Terrific actor. Been watching hom on Days since I was 10. Sad," whereas one mentioned, "Grew up watching him on Days. Very sad to hear this. Condolences to his family and friends."

A user also wrote, "Awww, I loved his acting and his character. This is a sad day for the soap world. RIP."

This article contains remarks made on the Internet by individual people and organizations. MEAWW cannot confirm them independently and does not support claims or opinions being made online.