Drake Hogestyn, Days of Our Lives‘ John Black, Dead at 70

Actor Drake Hogestyn, who since 1986 has played John Black on the long-running soap opera Days of Our Lives, died on Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 70.

“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the actor’s family wrote in a statement posted to Days of Our Lives‘ Instagram account. “He was thrown the curveball 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. 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.”

In a statement to Soap Opera Digest, Days executive producer Ken Corday added, “This is a very difficult one for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”