When I was a teenager during the summertime, I used to watch Days of Our Lives.
The long-running series has showcased many vibrant characters over the years, and Drake Hogestyn was undoubtedly one of the most memorable.
Now we mourn the loss of this beloved star, who passed away just one day shy of his 71st birthday.
Donald Drake Hogestyn, known to many as John Black from Days of Our Lives, left an indelible mark on the world of daytime television.
After an incredible 38 years and nearly 4,300 episodes on the iconic show, his passing just one day before his 71st birthday has left fans heartbroken.
Born in 1953 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn was destined for greatness from a young age, with a father who hailed from New York and a devoted mother who nurtured his talents.
Hogestyn’s journey to stardom began in the 1980s when he ventured into acting with Columbia Pictures. In a talent search that attracted 75,000 hopefuls, he emerged as one of just 30 selected, securing a significant role in the prime-time series Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
Drafted by Yankees
However, what many fans might not know is that before he captivated audiences on screen, Hogestyn was a promising baseball player who had even been drafted by the New York Yankees. As a skilled third baseman in their minor league system, it seemed he was on the path to playing at Yankee Stadium. Yet, an unexpected injury shattered those dreams, steering him toward a different kind of spotlight.
In 1986, Hogestyn made his mark on Days of Our Lives, first appearing as a mysterious character known as “The Pawn.”
Audiences were excited, and Hogestyn quickly became a fan favorite, transforming into the iconic John Black. Over the years, he navigated dramatic storylines filled with amnesia, espionage, and intense relationships, making him one of the most recognizable faces in daytime television.
His on-screen romance with longtime co-star Deidre Hall, known for her portrayal of Marlena, became a defining element of the series and established them as a true supercouple on daytime television.
Hogestyn’s talent earned him numerous nominations for Soap Opera Digest Awards, with multiple wins for Favorite Hero and Favorite Couple alongside Hall.
Why was he fired?
In 2008, fans were stunned when it was announced that Hogestyn and Hall had been let go from Days of Our Lives due to budget cuts. However, the demand for their return was undeniable, and they rejoined the show a few years later, much to the delight of their devoted fans. Tragically, Hogestyn made his final appearance on the soap on September 9, 2024, just weeks before his passing.
Drake and his wife, Victoria, shared a deep love that began when he was just 15 years old and she was only 12. ”We were meant to be,” he once said in an interview, capturing the essence of their enduring bond. They married in 1986, the same year Hogestyn joined Days of Our Lives, and together they raised four children.
Cause of death
Sadly, Drake Hogestyn’s life came to an end due to pancreatic cancer on September 28, 2024, in Los Angeles.
His family announced the news with heavy hearts, saying, ”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.”
As we remember Drake Hogestyn, we celebrate the joy and inspiration he brought into our lives, both through his unforgettable performances and the love he shared with his family. He will forever remain a cherished part of television history and in the hearts of his fans.
My condolences to his family, friends, coworkers and fans! Rest in peace, Drake!
Beloved superstar has died this morning in a tragic car accident
A football prospect for the NFL who died in a car accident on Saturday morning wrote a sad last post just hours before he died.
Police say a speeding car killed 24-year-old Khyree Jackson and two of his friends. Jackson was picked up by the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL draft not long ago.
Police confirmed early Saturday morning that Jackson, the cornerback, and Hazel, the driver, were both pronounced dead at the scene. Hazel was Jackson’s high school teammate.
Anthony Lytton Jr., a fellow passenger and teammate, was rushed to the hospital but later pronounced dead as well.
On Friday, Jackson posted a 10-slide Instagram carousel with pictures from his life, including ones of him at Vikings practice, along with the message “Mmmhmmm.”
Jackson also posted pictures of himself smiling on a beach with two parrots, flexing with a lizard, and taking selfies in front of a mirror to show off his stylish clothes.
In a picture in the post comparing “dreamers” and “doers,” a group of people labeled as “dreamers” watch a man labeled as a “doer” surf a huge wave.
Jackson really was a “doer.”
TMZ said that the football star started college at Fort Scott Community College after graduating from Dr. Henry Wise Jr. High School. He worked his way up and went on to play for the Oregon Ducks and the Alabama Crimson Tide.
Oregon Live said that Jackson’s best season so far was 2023, which made him the best cornerback for the Ducks.
They picked the cornerback, who is 24 years old, in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft.
“The news of Khyree Jackson’s death after an overnight car accident breaks our hearts,” the Vikings said in a statement.
“The Minnesota Vikings have talked to Khyree’s family and offered their support while we look into the matter further.”
“We have also communicated the news to Vikings players, coaches and staff and have offered counseling for those who need emotional support.”
“Our hearts go out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, coaches, and all the other people who died in this terrible accident.”
Jackson had “contagious energy” that made the other players want to play.
“The news of this breaks my heart.” “Khyree’s energy spread through our building and team,” O’Connell said in a statement.
“His teammates liked him right away because he was sure of himself and had a great personality.” While we were together, it was clear that Khyree was going to become a great professional football player. But what really impressed me was how much he wanted to be the best person he could be for his family and the people around him.
“I don’t know what to say. Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches are in my thoughts and prayers.
Around 3 a.m. Saturday, Jackson was riding in a Dodge Charger with two former teammates when a fast-moving Infiniti pulled out in front of them.
Police say that after getting hit, the Charger went off the road to the right and hit several tree stumps.
From what the police say, the Infiniti also hit a Chevrolet Impala.
The driver of the Impala, Cori Clingman, and the two people in her car were not hurt. Neither was the driver of the Infiniti.
After the investigation, charges have not yet been made.
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