Deidre Hall Honors Late Days of our Lives Co-Star Drake Hogestyn

Deidre Hall spoke out about her long-time co-star on Days of our Lives, Drake Hogestyn. Hogestyn’s death on September 28 rocked the soap world, and tributes to the late actor, who portrayed John Black, have poured on.

Hogestyn’s Greatest Loves

In a statement to Access Online, Hall said,“For nearly 4 decades, Marlena Evans and I have loved the same man. Marlena’s John is an iconic hero, unfailingly rescuing her from all matter of villains,” Hall said. “My acting partner was incredibly professional from the moment he entered the studio; flawless in his preparation and ready for any eventuality in any scene.

“He was gracious and kind to everyone, from the executive staff to the night crew,” she continued. “Drake loved what he did and adored and respected everyone with whom he did it. 

“Having said that, we always knew that his two greatest loves were his family and the Yankees,” Hall added. “Victoria and their children were truly the center of his life. Drake is dearly loved by everyone who ever knew him and he will be missed beyond measure. We will continue, as he always encouraged us, to swing for the fences.”

Hall’s statement comes a day after Hogestyn’s other on-screen family members, Christopher Sean (Paul) and Eric Martsolf (Brady), paid tribute to the late actor.

The End of John and Marlena

Hogestyn and Hall were each one half of DAYS supercouple John and Marlena. Their final scenes together as John and Marlena aired on September 5. Of course, while they’ve appeared together for the last time, this isn’t the end of the couple in Salem just yet.

DAYS films about seven months ahead, which means it could be a while before John’s death is referenced on screen. Soap Hub will bring you any details about special episodes honoring Hogestyn’s and John’s legacy on the soap as soon as we learn them.