Soap Hub first reported that beloved Days of our Lives actor Drake Hogestyn died on Saturday, September 28, just one day shy of his 71st birthday. Current and past cast and crew of DAYS and others in the soap opera world have paid tribute to the actor who portrayed John Black on the show.
Tributes To Drake Hogestyn
DAYS shared a photo on its official Instagram account announcing Hogestyn’s passing, which you can see below.
A touching tribute comes from Susan Seaforth Hayes. From the @billsusanhayes Instagram account, she posted a photo featuring her with Deidre Hall (Marlena), Drake, and her late husband, Bill Hayes, who passed away earlier this year. She wrote a beautiful message saying, “Drake was the easy going hero every woman hopes to cross her path in crisis or romance. Drake was the buddy every man hopes to never lose.
Drake always gave his best. One of those Days icons that kept America tuning in for 60 years. And let me tell you fans and friends, his Salem cast mates were his greatest fans of all ❤️ #DrakeHogestyn“
Kristian Alfonso (Hope) took to Instagram to share a sweet video slideshow of pictures herself with the actor along with her tribute. “My heart 💔 💔💔….. 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 every day Drake on set and off you were always our hero. Love you … Rest in Peace 🕊️my sweet friend ❤️”
Alison Sweeney (Sami) shared a lovely photo of herself and Hogestyn hugging on Instagram. She wrote, “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.”
Martha Madison (Belle) took to Instagram and shared a photo of herself with the late actor, who portrayed her father on DAYS. “Today, the world lost a great man, Salem lost its greatest hero, and I lost one of my favorite scene partners. With a heart full of baseball, Drake was the embodiment of team spirit and mentored so many of us at #Days like a true team Captain. He was also a cheerleader. One of my favorite memories of Drake was from not too long ago. He knew I was super nervous as I was preparing to deliver a five-page deathbed monologue, and after we finished the scene (both soaked in tears and snot), he gave me a huge hug and whispered, ‘Kid, it was like that moment when you hear the crack of the bat against a long ball that flies into the stands and the crowd goes wild.’
I always knew if I was working with him that I would need to spend a little extra time on my scene prep. He was always off book and word perfect, and in 20 years I don’t think I ever remember him holding a script. More than that, he was always ready to play. He loved diving into our father/daughter dynamics, and there was no place I could go in a scene where he wasn’t exactly right there with me.
Drake was full of enthusiasm and humor and aways told the most amazing stories. He loved being an actor and always showed grace and gratitude when it came to his work and his fans. He loved his family deeply and was over the moon to be a Grandfather.
I’m sending my deepest sympathies to his family and to all of the cast, crew and fans who have loved him for decades.
RIP ❤️🕊️ @drakehogestyn”
Christie Clark (Carrie) posted a photo of one of John and Marlena’s weddings, which took place when she was a little girl. In her tribute to Drake, she talked about his significance to her life: “To say I was one of the lucky ones is an understatement. Drake (aka Hoagie) was simply one of the best people I’ve ever met.
I was essentially raised by Drake on the set of Days of our lives! He was my TV dad, who became my second real father. Being guided, nurtured, and taught by this man on set makes me feel incredibly fortunate. It’s astonishing how he took so many others under his wing.
Drake had unmatched energy and made time for everyone. He gave all the crew and cast the same enthusiasm, creating a wonderful atmosphere on set! When he spoke to you, he truly listened and absorbed every word. If you told him a joke, he’d remember it for years. His collection of jokes and stories was unrivaled.
Drake radiated light and positivity, crafting the beautiful life he had outside of work. Victoria and Drake loved each other deeply! That’s why he was so enjoyable to watch and became a fan favorite, along with Dee Hall. The audience felt his warmth and goodness and wanted more.
Sending massive healing thoughts to his beautiful family, of whom he was so unbelievably proud: Victoria, Whitney, Rachel, Ben, Alexandra, their new spouses, and all his fabulous new grandbabies! It was all for you!
Drake, I’ll always be your little pumpkin! I’m grateful to know I have a true angel looking out for me. #RIP @drakehogestyn #daysofourlives“
Kyle Lowder (Rex, formerly Brady Black) remembered Drake as a father on screen and a father-figure off the screen. In his Instagram tribute to Drake, he said, “Drake Hogestyn was not only my TV dad, he was a real-life father figure to me.
I began my career as a nervous 19 year old kid on @dayspeacock , having just moved to LA, and right before our very first scene he grabbed my shoulders and said, “I got you kid.” And he had me. Every step of the way. Drake was one of the kindest, most generous men I’ve ever known, with an unparalleled enthusiasm for life.
It’s brutally hard to accept the reality of his passing. I will deeply miss you, Drake. The world has truly lost one of the best.
#drakehogestyn #daysofourlives #dool“
Lauren Koslow (Kate) shared beautiful words on Instagram. She wrote: “Good-night, sweet prince;
And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest.
Drake,
We will miss you forever and a day .
We -friends, cast mates, crew & loyal fans, anyone who crossed your path – were touched by your joyful & passionate zest for life. Your courage. Your compassion.
We admired your deep respect for your craft. We appreciated your leadership during hectic times.
We saw your fulfillment in your abounding love & devotion for your beautiful Victoria, your children & family.
Our hero on and off screen, a man’s man, a woman’s friend,
You lit up every space with your presence, your laughter, positivity, & undeniable beauty …. And of course, your unparalleled storytelling.
You shared your grace, kind heart, professionalism & passion for your art with us all and we are all better for it
Sharing the stage with you was an honor & delight. definitely some of my favorite scenes EVER …
Lastly thank you for all the gardening advice, horse & dog stories, kids & grand baby chats and the best, deep down the rabbit hole kind of conversations that will stay with me forever .❤️💔❤️💔🥰 Blessed to know you, my friend. #drakehogestyn #days
Mary Beth Evans also shared her heartfelt thoughts about Hogestyn on Instagram. She shared a short clip of him, writing the words, “With such a heavy heart, I can’t really find the words today about the passing of this sweet, kind man. From the first day we met in the green room of Days of Our Lives in 1986, we were fast friends. Drake’s love and devotion to his forever sweetheart Victoria, his children and grandchildren was one of his most endearing qualities. Such a good, honest man. We are all in shock of the news we received yesterday. [Drake Hogestyn] you will remain in my heart always. Sending so much love to you.❤️#days”
On Instagram, Eric Martsolf (Brady) chose a photo of him and Drake from his early DAYS. In the emotional post, he spoke from the heart saying, “This shot was taken fairly early in my Days career; uncertain of my place within the historic family and so anxious to “fit in”.
He placed his hand on my shoulder, as he would for the next 16 years as my tv Dad, and said “you got this kid.” He ingratiated me into his soap opera family instantly, and was a big reason why I have made it my home to this day. His kindness, storytelling, and studliness is still unmatched.
He was a man who wasn’t afraid to “feel” and emote, a worthy lesson for all fathers to pass along. Our hallways at DOOL will never be the same without him strolling through them. I was honored to portray his son, and will continue to emulate his work ethic and spirit. The world will miss him, and I will continue to feel his hand on my shoulder always. God bless you, Drake.”
Martsolf’s TV brother also wrote about how much Drake meant to him. On Instagram, Greg Vaughan (Eric) not only posted a photo of the last time he was with Drake, he included some of the last texts he exchanged with Drake. “This was our last time together, giving a set tour of Days of Our Lives to family and friends of mine. And a few of our final messages.
Drake was more than just a family man; he always made time for anyone & everyone! He was a wonderful storyteller, and most importantly, a loving and caring person. As a father figure to me and many of my costars, we shared our love for sports, and he always wanted to hear about my son’s life & sports!
On set, Drake was never short of being a scene stealer but an amazing way of making everyone in the room feel loved, supported, and valued. It’s still hard to believe that he passed away a day before his 71st birthday. Like John Black, only Drake could have orchestrated such a dramatic exit.
As I know he would want us all to celebrate his life and hold on to our fond memories. His voice will always stay with me, leaving a lasting impact. Happy Birthday and I love you, Drake. Godspeed ❤️”
On X, Vaughn also posted a tribute to Hogestyn. In his emotional message, the actor said, “Always a great day w/@DrakeHogestyn! He was a man of men who LOVED, APPRECIATED & LIVED every day to the FULLEST! Gonna miss the conversations & his hugs! As he’d say to me, ‘keep making memories, they’ll be remembered forever!’ 🙏🏻❤️🕊️”
Christopher Sean, who portrayed Paul Narita, John’s son, shared a photo of John and Paul embracing. He wrote, “I will always love you. You were more than just my tv father, in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me. The world lost a true Hero. Miss and love you so much Drake. Rest in Peace Dad.
‘Keep Swinging for the Fences.”Drake Hogestyn'”
Sean also shared a post on Instagram with the same words that included a wonderful slideshow of the two of them.
On her Insta Story, Camila Banus (ex-Gabi Hernandez) posted about Drake. In it, she called him “such a kind and gentle human.” And then wrote a heartfelt message saying, ” RIP to this legend and super star @drakehogestyn. It was an honor to work alongside you. To hear your stories and jokes. To be in your presence.🙏🏽 🪽”
Charles Shaughnessy (Shane and Drew Donavan) shared an Instagram post honoring the late actor, which you can see below.
On X, Who’s the Boss and Taxi star Tony Danza responded to a Variety article and said, “Drake Hogestyn was good guy, a good actor, and a good baseball player. Rest in peace my friend”
Michael Easton (ex-Finn, GH; ex-Tanner, DAYS) paid tribute to Drake on his Instagram account, saying, “Mourning the loss of our friend Drake Hogestyn. Drake was talented, kind, and a true gentleman. On my first day on set, I had no idea what I was doing, and he knocked on my door, introduced himself, and welcomed me to the show. I’ll never forget how much that meant to me.
He loved talking about his family, dogs and baseball and he was loved by all who knew him. My deepest sympathies to his family, his friends, the cast and crew of DOOL and all of his fans. Rest in peace, brother. #drakehogestyn #dool“
On X, Matthew Ashford (Jack) responded to a birthday post featuring Drake and his beautiful family from the official Days account. September 29 was Drake’s birthday. In his post, he said, “Dear Drake ❤️ your love of family and friends of your love of this show we have all shared makes this an all too close loss.
You are loved my brother.❤️”
Mike Manning (Charlie Dale) wrote on X, “Sending prayers and love to the family of Drake Hogestyn. He was a talent, a gentleman, and most of all a good human being. RIP Drake 🙏🏼”
Lamon Archey (Eil) took to X to remember his former co-star. “Condolences to the family, friends, and fans who’ve watched Drake dedicate almost four decades to #Days. He will be missed. Heaven got a real one. Godspeed 🕊️ 💙”
General Hospital stars Genie Francis (Laura, ex-Diana Colville, DAYS) and Nancy Lee Grahn (Alexis) shared beautiful words of condolences.
Beyond the Gates head writer Michele Val Jean reshared the DAYS post on X, adding, “This makes me so sad. Rest well, sir. Your work here is done.”
Thaao Penghlis (Tony and Andre DiMera) shared a fun photo of himself with Drake and Deidre Hall (Marlena) on X. He wrote, “We shared much over the years John Tony & Andre. Great stories were told. To his family, to Deidre & Days so sorry for ur great loss. We will remember him well even though our hearts bleed. Drake thank you & May this next journey be one of great enlightenment. RIP”
Eileen Davidson (ex-Kristen DiMera, ex-Susan Banks, DAYS; Ashley Abbott, Y&R) shared on X, “When I heard the news about Drake Hogestyn’s passing I felt kicked in the gut. A truly one of a kind. So kind, hilarious & talented. Loved his family so much. I know he’s up there telling one of his many stories. Thanks for the laughs Drake. I’ll always love and miss you. XO.”
Farah Fath (Mimi Lockhart) wrote on X, “What a sad night this is.
He was so kind and genuine in every interaction…with a zest for life, his work, and all his millions of fans. But his biggest passion was always, by far…his family.
And that was the most touching thing about him. Rest peacefully, Drake Hogestyn.”
Bryan Dattilo (Lucas) served up a tribute that was heartfelt and sweet. In his Instagram message, he said, “Yesterday Heaven got the best 3rd baseman of all time. Drake lived 70+ years and fell one day short of 71. Today is that day. Happy birthday my idol and may you rest in peace.”
Current DAYS stars Dan Feuerriegel, Carson Boatman, and Brandon Barash all posted their love for Drake on IG Story.
Feuerriegel shared that “Drake secretly took this photo of @inlikebillyflynn & I
He would always compliment other actors when he witnessed good work. Like a proud Dad. Always made me smile.xx”
Boatman wrote, “RIP, Drake. Work won’t be the same without Grandpa John. We’re gonna miss your stories and your kindness. #swingforthefences.”
As for Barash, his post included a baseball photo. “We never worked together — not once. Yet he never hesitated to pat me on the back in the @dayspeacock halls and tell me that I had “knocked those scenes outta the park.” He never hesitated to ask me about my family — my little girl, my wife, our new baby boy — all whom he barely knew. A true mensch.
We all have a job to do…,” the actor continued. “To keep Drake alive by paying forward his passion for life and human connection. To be kind and compassionate to others — even if we barely know or interact with them. To lead with love. And to always *always* swing for the fences. You’re missed terribly, old friend.”
Via Patrick Darbo’s Instagram, the actress who plays Nancy on DAYS left a personal video message and gave the reasons why she will miss Drake. In the video, she talked about how he made her feel welcome when she first started on the soap back in the ’90s.
Also on Instagram, Galen Gering (Rafe) paid tribute to Drake by telling a story about their special trip to Africa. He included photos from their time on that continent. He wrote: “I was lucky enough to go on a special trip with Drake and represent Days in S Africa. We went from Johannesburg to Cape Town and had moments where thousands of people cheered for us to times walking on deserted beaches. The one constant in it all was Drake- always just awesome to be around. We laughed so much. I mean, my face hurt every day. We were in his element, surrounded by people and animals. The energy he had was contagious and people gravitated towards him. He always took time for everyone and made them to feel special.
Drake was always such a great storyteller and I knew at some point on that trip we were creating one he would eventually tell. This adventure would be a square added to the extraordinary quilt of his life.
One of the things Drake would often say among his many ‘isims’ was ,”…well that was a below average feeling.” And as I sit here and write this I can definitely relate. Thank you for the memories and the good times and being an incredible steward for the show. You are loved and you are missed. Sending my condolences to your beautiful family I know you cherished beyond measure.
Rest in Peace my friend.”
Gering’s costar, Tamara Braun, posted her own emotional message on her Instagram account. “What an honor it was to work with you, to get to know you, to hear your incredible stories. Your kindness and generosity of spirit were always exemplary. Your work ethic, your life ethic, family ethic…. Oh how you loved your family so deeply. I loved to watch your face light up while speaking about your wife, kids and grandkids. You beamed. My heart hurts the most for them. What a loss. 💔
I’m so grateful that Days put you, me and Stephen together recently for a fun filled caper story. The three of us laughed so much while we ran lines, while we shot, while we played. We just laughed, laughed, laughed. What a treat. I will cherish that time and the memory of you.
You, kind sir, sure did love life and knew how to enjoy all its gifts. Boy did I admire that in you. You are already greatly missed. Much love and respect always, Drake 🩷🕊️⌛”
On X, Paul Telfer reposted a clip featuring a rare moment that Xander Cook and John Black shared. He included the heartfelt words, “Rest in peace, Drake
We will all miss you so much”
Also on X, Colton Little (Andrew) shared his thoughts on Hogestyn. “Drake 🤍 Thank you,” he wrote. “You made all of us better. My love goes out to your family, your fans, and to everyone in Salem.”
Victoria Grace (Wendy) posted her thoughts on X. She wrote, “I’m so sad to hear about Drake Hogestyn’s passing. Even as a Days of Our Lives icon, he was nothing but warm, welcoming, and gracious towards me, a newer addition to the cast. I’m extremely grateful to have worked with him. My heart goes out to his family and loved ones. RIP”
Soap Vet Jon Lindstrom (Kevin, GH; formerly ATWT, Port Charles) only had good things to say about Drake. “I don’t think you could find anyone who had ever met Drake Hogestyn who didn’t like him. I didn’t know him well, but our paths crossed many times. I always found a warm, accessible, friendly and very, very funny man. The world is a lesser place without him. R.I.P. #FlightOfAngels#DrakeHogestyn @DaysPeacock @GeneralHospital#gh“
William deVry (Julian Jerome, GH; Storm Logan, The Bold and the Beautiful) shared his thoughts on X. “Just seeing the news on Drake Hogestyn. RIP Drake. I know a lot of people are very sad this evening. Condolences to all who loved him. Family. Friends. Fans. #DaysCommunity #Days Been a rough few years in Daytime.”
And GH’s Bradford Anderson (Spinelli) posted his own tribute to Drake on his IG Story, calling him a “Days legend”. In this story, he said he was “devastated. Thank you for everything Drake. Thank you for your kindness, your talent, and your friendship. You will be dearly missed.”
The Young and the Restless also reshared the DAYS announcement and offered condolences to DAYS.
Billy Warlock (Frankie Brady) shared his thoughts about his former co-star on X. “I am absolutely shocked and saddened to hear about Drake. Drake was an amazing man and such a stud. The list goes on. He was Superman to me. He will sorely be missed.”
Staci Greason, who played John’s late love interest, and Brady’s mom, Isabella, reminisced about Drake in a touching Instagram message.
On X, Kyle Brandt (ex-Philip Kiriakis) reflected on the impression Drake left on him when he starred on DAYS.
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