Drake Hogestyn, who played John Black on Days of Our Lives for 38 years, has died of pancreatic cancer.

The actor's family announced the news in a statement posted to the long-running soap opera's Instagram account.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. When he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, he experienced the turning point of his life, but he met the challenge with incredible strength and determination,” the statement said. “After an incredible fight, he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones. He was the greatest husband, father, dad and actor. He loved performing for the “Days” audience and sharing the stage with the best cast, crew and production team in the business. We love him and will miss him all the days of our lives.”

Hogestyn first appeared on Days of Our Lives on January 24, 1986. He then played John Black – the mysterious and heroic spy, mercenary, police officer, private detective and secret agent – in more than 4,200 episodes of NBC Soap (which has been airing episodes on Peacock since 2022). Along with Deidre Hall as Marlena Evans, Hogestyn helped create one of the most famous romances on daytime television.

Hogestyn's appearances outside of “Days of Our Lives” included the CBS musical series “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers” and a handful of made-for-TV movies in the 1980s and '90s, including “Generation,” “Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues” and “One Stormy.” . Night” and “Night Sins”.

Kassie DePaiva, who played Eve on Days of Our Lives, paid tribute to Hogestyn on social media, writing on X: “I am so sad about this news. One of the nicest people I've ever worked with. What an amazing life he led. We will miss him. He made the world a better place.”