Deidre Hall is paying tribute to her longtime Days of Our Lives costar, Drake Hogestyn. The John Black actor died on September 28 of complications from pancreatic cancer. Together, Hall and Hogestyn made up the Days supercouple that is John Black and Marlena Evan. The two had been costars since 1986.
“For nearly four decades, Marlena Evans and I have loved the same man,” Hall told Access Hollywood. “Marlena’s John is an iconic hero, unfailingly rescuing her from all matter of villains. 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.”
Hall continued: “He was gracious and kind to everyone, from the executive staff to the night crew. 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 next mentioned Hogestyn’s wife since 1986, Victoria Post. “Victoria and their children were truly the center of his life,” Hall said, concluding her statement by saying, “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.”
Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn on the cover of TV Guide Magazine, August 2020 (TV Guide Magazine / Everett Collection)
Hall first debuted on Days of Our Lives on June 21, 1976. The other half of her supercouple would come one decade later. Hogestyn first appeared on Days in an episode that aired on January 24, 1986. He stayed on the show until his death, with some brief times away in between. He appeared in over 4,200 episodes of the beloved NBC soap.
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Hogestyn died on September 28 at the age of 70, just one day before his 71st birthday. The soap announced his death via a touching tribute from Hogestyn’s family.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the family’s statement said. “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.”
They added: “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, crew, and production team in the business. We love him, and we will miss him all the Days of Our Lives.”
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