We have an update on the tragic passing of Drake Hogestyn.
As previously reported, the hon. soap opera actor died at the end of September, at age 70.
Hogestyn was best known for playing the character John Black on Days of Our Lives for nearly four decades.
Now, however, we can report that Hogestyn died of pancreatic canceraccording to a death certificate obtained by People Magazine.
Other factors that contributed to his death included vomiting, dehydration, and total body toxicity.
The actor was cremated at the Rose Family Funeral Home in Simi Valley, and no autopsy was performed following his death.
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” read a statement from the Hogestyn family, posted to the Days of Our Lives Instagram account about two weeks ago.
“After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”
The actor’s family also chimed in to mourn their loved one, stating for the record what a memorable artist Hogestyn was and someone who meant so much to his family and the cast, crew and production team of Days of Our Lives.
“He was the most incredible husband, father, daddy and actor,” the message added.
“He loved performing for Days audiences and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the business. We love him and will miss him every day of our lives.”
Hogestyn made his Days of Our Lives debut in 1986 in an enigmatic role called “The Pawn,” although he became a favorite through the character John Black.
Star and former co-star Deirdre Hall, who played Marlena Evans, won a Soap Opera Digest award in 2005 for Favorite Couple.
“Drake was an incredible man. He was funny, generous and caring,” colleague Allison Sweeney wrote on Instagram.
“He cared about every scene, every person. He loves Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant everything to him. He was a big part of my life on Days.
“I will miss him so much and I will cherish every story, every joke and every hug.”