Drake Hogestyn's Days of Our Lives costars are paying tribute to him in wake of his death. The longtime soap star, who portrayed John Black on the series since 1986, died just one day shy of his birthday on September 28,

The actor played the beloved character in more than 4,200 episodes of the popular soap opera, joining the cast in 1986.

Longtime “Days of Our Lives” star Drake Hogestyn, who played John Black for nearly four decades, has died at age 70.

Hogestyn — who starred in 'Days' for nearly 40 years — died at age 70 on Sept. 28 following a pancreatic cancer diagnosis

Drake Hogestyn, the actor who portrayed John Black for nearly 40 years on “Days of Our Lives,” died at the age of 70. The actor battled pancreatic cancer, according to a statement shared by his family on show’s Instagram account.

Drake Hogestyn, a fixture on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” has died at 70 from pancreatic cancer. For nearly 40 years, he starred as John Black.

Mr. Hogestyn was best known for playing John Black on the daytime soap opera and appeared in more than 4,200 episodes over 38 years.

Alison Sweeney (Sami) and Eileen Davidson (ex-Kristen/Susan; Ashley, Y&R). Those who knew and loved him are posting tributes on social media in

Drake Hogestyn, who played mysterious and heroic John Black on “Days of Our Lives” for nearly four decades, died Saturday morning.