Days Of Our Lives spoilers and updates reveal Drake Hogestyn, who died one day before his 71st birthday on September 28, was a well-loved man. Hundreds of social media posts from his castmates and soap opera world friends have poured in for the actor known onscreen as John Black, and they keep pouring in!

The Sad News Broke On DOOL’s Social Media

A statement from Drake’s family appeared on DOOL’s social media first, and read as follows: “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn.

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, crews, and production team in the business. We love him and we will miss him all the Days of Our Lives. -The Hogestyn Family”

Tributes Began Pouring In From Castmates And Friends

Tributes began pouring in on social media from castmates and friends, and continue to; Eileen Davidson –“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.” Kyle Brandt –“I am so sad; Drake was the best-the best; I had a storyline with Drake in 2003, I was the clueless neophyte, he was the venerable legend. And he could not have been cooler, more helpful, or more wonderful; I am so sad.

Kyle Lowder’s Tribute

Kyle Lowder, the original portrayer of Brady Black who now portrays Rex Brady posted this: Drake Hogestyn wasn’t just 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. He 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.

Melissa Reeves Weighs In

Melissa Reeves, the original Jennifer Deveraux, posted her thoughts: “Heartbroken is the condition of our hearts hearing of Drake’s passing; also blessed and grateful to know such a wonderful man. Thank you Drake for your example of professionalism at work for all of us to follow. Thank you for loving your precious Victoria and your children and grandchildren as we watched your family grow. Your stories of your adventurous life entertained us for so many years-your last text to me was to love and cherish our time with our grandchildren. That was always the allegiance of your heart-family first; there are not enough words-Psalm 147:3.

Jen Lilley, Original Theresa Donovan

Jen Lilley posts: “I am absolutely gutted by the news of Drake Hogestyn’s death.-though our relationship on screen was anything but civil, we had an incredible relationship off screen. When I went back last year, Drake was the first cast member to see me. He grabbed me and we gave each other the longest and tightest hug and then got in trouble for breaking Covid protocol-we didn’t care, we loved each other so much.

There’s just not enough wonderful words to describe Drake; he was such a role model to me on and off screen. Intelligent, funny, a team player, a wealth of wisdom, and the best hugger-hug your loved ones tight today, #ripdrakehogestyn you’re a legend.

Crystal Chappel And Stacy Haiduk, Victoria Grace, Paul Telfer Comment

Crystal Chappel, former Carly Manning-sending prayers to the Hogestyn family, Drake was a lovely man. Stacy Haiduk (current Kristen) I am so grateful to have worked and gotten to know Drake-such an amazing soul, you will be missed so much by all who loved you! Thank you for all you have brought to this world, I will miss you as so many others will-much Love and Light to all! Victoria Grace (Wendy): Oh my goodness, I’m so so sad to hear this-I’m honored to have worked with him, just the nicest guy-RIP Drake. Paul Telfer (Xander): The ultimate team player, so supportive, and so much fun; devastating loss to this genre.

Galen Gering, Robert Scott Wilson, Lindsay Arnold’s And Lucas Adams’ Condolences

Galen Gering (Rafe): An amazing human who lived larger than life and always brought a smile and a great story to every room, you will be missed greatly my friend-rest in power. Robert Scott Wilson (Alex): An absolute legend and an incredible man; will forever be missed and honored. Lindsay Arnold (Allie): Truly the sweetest, most welcoming man-lucky and honored to have known him.

Lucas Adams (Tripp): A wonderful and beautiful human being. It was a pleasure to have known you-rest in peace, legend.

Colton Little, Camila Banus, Greg Rikaart, Cherie Jimenez, Julie Dove, Kristen Renton’s Condolences

Colton Little (Andrew Donovan) Drake, thank you; you made all of us better; my love goes out to your family, your fans, and to everyone in Salem. Former Gabi, Camila Banus pays tribute to Drake Hogestyn – on a photo, she put “kind and gentle human”– Greg Rikaart (Leo Stark) “Rest well, Drake”.

Current Gabi Cherie Jimenez posted the Days Peacock/Hogestyn family announcement with broken heart and praying hands emojis. Julie Dove; (Connie Vininski) Thank you for sharing your talent with us Drake-you will be missed. Kristen Renton (Morgan Hollingsworth) posted “rest in love sir… it was an honor and a privilege to have worked with you.”

George DelHoyo And Christopher Sean

George DelHoyo (Orpheus): Simply put, Drake was as gracious, kind, patient and generous a man as I’ve known. His untimely departure is felt as a deep loss to all who have had the privilege of sharing the stage with him; God hold and keep his sweet soul. And to you, his beloved family, I send my deepest condolences and love; our world was better for him.

Christopher Sean (Paul Narita): 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.

Charles Shaughnessy (Shane and Drew Donovan)

Charles posted, “Baseball and life can be brutal and heartbreaking; the very best of us can be struck out way too soon. I didn’t get to work with Drake as often as I would have wished, but it was always so much fun when I did. Just thinking of him in an odd moment would bring a sudden smile to my face: it will always do so. Love you, man, Sleep with the Angels. Kathleen Gati, who was a General Hospital castmate of Charles’ responded, “Deepest condolences to you, to his family, his friends, colleagues and fans”.

Michael Easton, Who Played Tanner Scofield Posted

“Mourning the loss of our friend Drake Hogestyn; Drake was talented and kind and a true gentleman-on my first day on set, I had no idea what I was doing. He knocked on my door, introduced himself and welcomed me to the show and 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. Rebecca Budig responded, I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things about him; very sad.

Former Days Star Arianne Zucker

Arianne, who played Nicole Walker posted in memory of Drake: Gentleman; that is the first thing I would say about Drake-a TRUE gentleman-integrity, respect, kindness and love. He was truly authentic, he was a talker and someone I had always admired. He was the man who walked into the studio and made sure he spoke to everyone and made sure they were having a good day. If not, he told them a story that would change their day; he told so many stories of his days in baseball. He loved speaking to every single fan of the show… in length, but his wife was his love; Victoria and of course his children and grand babies was his purpose!

Arianne Continued

Arianne continued, posting “I took today’s news today very difficult-this is the third person I have lost this year to cancer; not just a year, but within three months. Cancer sucks, it’s so hard; if I have any advice to offer, love those close to you.

Tell them often and respect the life you live! Victoria, from my family to yours, we love you.

Martha Madison Wrote A Long Post

Martha Madison (Belle Black Brady) also wrote a long post about her tv dad. “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.

Martha Continues

Martha continues, “after we finished the scene (both soaked in tears and snot), he gave me a huge hug. He 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.

Drake Loved Their Father And Daughter Dynamics

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 always 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.

Galen Gering And Thaao Penghlis Remember Drake

Galen Gering (Rafe Hernandez) responded to Martha, “A beautiful tribute to an incredible man-we were so lucky to have him; RIP Drake.” Thaao Penghlis (Andre and Tony DiMera) 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”

Farah Fath And Kristian Alfonso Remember Drake With Fondness

Farah Fath Galfond (Mimi Lockhart) wrote “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.” Kristian Alfonso (Hope Brady) wrote “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 everyday Drake on set and off you were always our hero; love you … rest in peace my sweet friend. Brandon Barash (Stefan DiMera) responded with three broken heart emojis.

Kate Mansi, Kennedy Garcia And Kassie DePaiva Posted Condolences

Kate Mansi (former Abigail DiMera) posted, “Heaven’s not ready for ‘story time’, Drake, they don’t know how good they’re about to have it-superimposed over a photo of them from several years ago. Kennedy Garcia (Felicity Greene) posted “So incredibly sad for all my @dayspeacock family and Drake’s loved ones”. She, too, used the family’s announcement on Days Peacock that many others did.

Kassie DePaiva: (Eve Donovan) “I’m so saddened by this news; one of the kindest people I have ever worked with. What an amazing life he lived, he will be missed-he made the world a better place; RIP Drake”.

Genie Francis, Lamon Archey And Dan Feurreriegel’s Condolences

Longtime DAYS fans will remember Genie Francis played the first Diana Colville; she posted, “So sad to hear of Drake Hogestyn’s passing-such a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure to work with him; I always loved how much he loved his wife and children. Lamon Archey (Eli Grant) wrote, “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. Dan Feurreriegel: (EJ DiMera) “He was such a beautiful man, always made me feel welcomed and part of the family. My deepest condolences to his family, friends and those who’s lives he touched.”

Greg Vaughan Remembers Drake

Greg, who played Eric Brady, wrote a very long post in remembrance of his friend. “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.”

Greg Vaughan Continues His Remembrance

“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”

Eric Martsolf Posted A Long Tribute As Well

Eric Martsolf (Brady Black) posted; “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.”

Eric Martsolf Continues His Tribute

“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.” Fellow former soap star Daniel Goddard, most recently of The Young and The Restless replied, writing “Mate, I’m shocked to hear this horribly sad news. God bless; #RIP”

Alison Sweeney Writes About Her TV Stepfather

Alison Sweeney (Sami Brady) posted, “Drake was an incredible man-he was funny, generous and thoughtful, and 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.”

For several years, Drake played Roman Brady, now played by Josh Taylor, Sami Brady’s birth father, until the real Roman returned, then played by Wayne Northrop. So she knew Drake as both her tv father and her stepfather!

Mike Manning’s And Cary Christopher’s Posts

Mike Manning, who played Charlie Dale, writes “Sending prayers and love to the family of Drake Hogestyn; he was a talent, a gentleman, and most of all a good human being. In another tweet, he posted “On screen we didn’t exactly love each other; off camera, you were a gentleman, a jokester, a very kind soul who always had a story. Now you’re playing in that big baseball field in Heaven. RIP Drake”. Cary Christopher (Thomas DiMera) writes, “I am so heartbroken to hear about his passing; I won’t forget how excited he was to talk to me about baseball when I told him I was playing Little League.  What an incredible person he was and I am so shocked and sad-my heart goes out to his family.”

Wally Kurth And Peter Reckell’s Memories

Wally Kurth (Justin Kiriakis) wrote, “I’m trying to find the words to express my deep sadness on Drake’s passing; he was a special man. So passionate about life, his family, his storylines and the stories he would tell-he had a lot of them; Drake loved his job and all his fans, and we loved him.” Peter Reckell (Bo Brady) responded to the below fan tweet with “thank you for this, heart broken.”

The tweet read “In loving memory of Drake Hogestyn and John Black, I have made a mini movie montage of the history of John and Bo. From their first scenes in 1986, right until their last, we all loved their relationship as brothers, and best friends.”

Darin Brooks, Formerly Max Brady Was Shocked

Darin Brooks was shocked, and posted,” Man… This one is too soon. I had the pleasure of working with Drake and in passing for only a few years back and honestly, everyone is saying the exact same word that I feel about Drake. GENTLEMAN…he was the true epitome of the word… kind, soft spoken, welcoming… I remember him coming up to me on my first day (first real acting job ever.) And his just being kind and welcoming to me and talking about baseball…thank you for that… I wish we got to play more on set. .”

Even Actors From Other Soaps Paid Drake Tribute

It seems like no matter which soap people worked on, they all knew Drake either personally or as fans of his themselves. Bradford Anderson, Damian Spinelli on General Hospital posted from “Stone Cold and The Jackal”, “Devastated; thank you for everything Drake-thank you for your kindness, your talent, and your friendship. You will be dearly missed.”

This was likely in behalf of both Bradford and his GH castmate and friend Steve Burton who played Harris Michaels. Nancy Lee Grahn, also from General Hospital posted “My deepest condolences to Drake Hogestyn’s family, friends and fans; what a lovely, lovely gracious man”.

More From The Soap World Expressed Their Condolences

Tonja Walker, who played Olivia Jerome on General Hospital and Alex Olanov on One Life to Live posted, “ So sad; I hate this disease as it took my husband too.” Doug Davidson, on “The Young And The Restless” for many years, wrote: “I am so saddened by this news-may God shower him with His grace and comfort all who loved him. Rest in peace, Drake”. William DeVry posted, “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, Days Community, been a rough few years in Daytime.”

Laura Wright, Kin Shriner And Jon Lindstrom Express Condolences

General Hospital fans may remember that Drake’s son, Ben Hogestyn played the character Lucas Jones when he was twenty-four years old. It’s possible Drake may have come onto the GH set in those days, and that’s why so many GH stars are posting condolences. Laura Wright wrote “So sad. One of daytime’s finest; RIP” and Kin Shriner, “RIP Drake a good guy, crossed paths a few times over his great run on @DaysPeacock.”

Jon Lindstrom wrote, “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. Every time I found a warm, accessible, friendly and very, very funny man; the world is a lesser place without his kind; R.I.P”.