You don’t have to be a Days of Our Lives fan to recognize the name Drake Hogestyn. Not only was the actor a longtime favorite, he was one half of “Jarlena,” the supercouple known as John Black and Marlena Evans. He played the role for over 35 years, having taken over from Robert Poynton in 1986, and appeared in the part into 2025 following his tragic death on September 28, 2024, at the age of 70.
A Superstar Before He Was a Daytime Star
Born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn graduated from North Side High School then went on to attend the University of South Florida in Tampa. Though he had been there on a baseball scholarship, he majored in pre-dentistry and graduated with a double major in microbiology and applied sciences. Hogestyn was a real talent on the baseball field and was drafted by both the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees. Hogestyn signed with the Yankees and played third base for one of their farm teams, the Fort Lauderdale Yankees. However, an injury in 1977 ended his baseball career.
From the Baseball Diamond to Salem
Hogestyn’s acting journey began after he entered a Columbia Pictures talent search. Out of 75,000 entrants, he was one of 30 selected, which led to him landing the role of Brian on Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. From there he did an episode of Otherworld and appeared in two movies, Generation and Beverly Hills Cowgirl Blues, before landing the role that would bring him into the home of millions five days a week.
“I make analogies to baseball every day on the set of Days of Our Lives,” Hogestyn stated in 2020 interview with Minor League Baseball. “It goes hand and hand with life. You have to focus, and be able to block out things when it is most important. You have to meet the challenge of it all. It’s the preparation before the game. When you walk out on the set, you’ve got to have your game face on. It’s all an extension of baseball.” And those who were close to Hogestyn and/or worked with him, often received a bit of advice from the actor in the form of an old baseball term, “Swing for the fences.”
The Pawn, to Roman, to John
Viewers first saw Hogestyn as mystery man “The Pawn” on Days of Our Lives in 1986. Later, after giving himself the name John Black, it had been revealed that he was the presume-dead Roman — until the truth came to light that in fact, Stefano DiMera had brainwashed him into thinking he was Roman. By that time, he decided to keep the name John and went on to be involved in many storylines over the years and made many more memories with the love of his life, Marlena Evans.
Those He Loved
Hogestyn and wife Victoria had been married since December of 1984 and in 1990, they were photographed with their kids, Rachael, Whitney, Alexandra and Ben during the Ice Capades Golden Anniversary.
Saying Goodbye to a Legend
A man many loved dearly, daytime was rocked when Hogestyn passed away on September 28, 2024, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. His fans flooded social media with condolences, as did his castmates, who shared their fond memories of the actor. “For nearly four decades, Marlena Evans and I have loved the same man,” stated Deidra Hall. The actors who played his onscreen sons paid tribute to Hogestyn as well, as Eric Martsolf, expressed, “He ingratiated me into his soap opera family instantly and was a big reason why I have made it my home to this day,” and Christopher Sean (ex-Paul) added, “I will always love you. You were more than just my TV father. In my eyes, you were my dad.” Martha Madison, who played his daughter Belle, shared, “The world lost a great man, Salem lost its greatest hero and I lost one of my favorite scene partners,” as Alison Sweeney (Sami) said, “He was such a huge part of my life at Days. I will miss him terribly and treasure every story, every joke and every hug.”
Drake Hogestyn cause of death: Days of Our Lives star dies aged 70
Drake Hogestyn, known for his nearly four-decade-long role on famous TV show ‘Days of our Lives’, passed away on Saturday, just one day before what would have been his 71st birthday. Hogestyn, best remembered for portraying the character John Black on the iconic soap opera, “passed away peacefully,” surrounded by family and loved ones, as announced on the show’s official Instagram.
Born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Hogestyn’s early life took many turns before he landed in Hollywood. A natural athlete, he played baseball for the University of South Florida, all while pursuing a double major in microbiology and applied sciences. His early dream was to become an oral surgeon.
However, fate intervened when the St. Louis Cardinals and later the New York Yankees took notice of his baseball talents, with the Yankees drafting him in the 1976 MLB Draft. His minor league career was cut short by injuries, leading him to pivot toward a different path.
Hollywood soon came calling when Hogestyn was selected for an acting training program through Columbia Pictures. This led to his casting as John Black, a multifaceted character who has been everything from a mysterious police officer to a private investigator and secret agent on “Days of our Lives.”
Over his 38 years on the show, Hogestyn appeared in more than 4,200 episodes, making him one of the most enduring and beloved faces of the series.
Drake Hogestyn cause of death
Hogestyn, who passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, leaves behind his wife, Victoria Post, his four children-Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael, and Ben-and seven grandchildren, who will continue to celebrate his life and legacy.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the Days of Our Lives official Instagram announced. “He was thrown the curve ball 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. 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.”
Lucky Items for Each Zodiac Sign When Leaving the House
Each zodiac sign has unique traits, and carrying the right lucky item can help enhance confidence, attract positivity, and ward off negative energy. Here’s a detailed guide to the best lucky item for each zodiac sign, along with its estimated luck-boosting percentage when stepping out of the house!
♈ Aries (March 21 – April 19) – Red Bracelet (Luck: 85%)
Aries is ruled by Mars, the planet of energy and action. A red bracelet enhances Aries’ natural confidence and drive, helping them stay focused and fearless. Red symbolizes power, passion, and determination, giving Aries an extra push to succeed in their daily ventures.
🔮 Why it works: Red is Aries’ power color, and a bracelet worn on the dominant hand acts as a talisman for success and courage.
♉ Taurus (April 20 – May 20) – Small Jade Stone (Luck: 80%)
Taurus is an earth sign ruled by Venus, which governs beauty, stability, and wealth. A jade stone is a powerful amulet for attracting prosperity and grounding energy.
🔮 Why it works: Jade is known to bring financial luck and emotional balance, keeping Taurus calm and focused throughout the day.
♊ Gemini (May 21 – June 20) – Silver Keychain (Luck: 75%)
Gemini thrives on communication and new experiences. A silver keychain symbolizes opportunities and open doors, attracting luck in networking, career, and personal encounters.
🔮 Why it works: Silver is a protective metal that enhances clarity and intuition, while a key symbolizes unlocking possibilities.
♋ Cancer (June 21 – July 22) – Moon-Shaped Pendant (Luck: 90%)
Cancer is deeply connected to the Moon, which governs emotions and intuition. Wearing a moon-shaped pendant offers emotional balance, protection, and luck in decision-making.
🔮 Why it works: The Moon influences Cancer’s energy, and a pendant amplifies their intuition, helping them navigate daily challenges with ease.
♌ Leo (July 23 – August 22) – Gold Accessory (Luck: 88%)
Leos are ruled by the Sun, radiating confidence and charisma. A gold accessory (ring, necklace, or bracelet) amplifies their natural glow, attracting admiration and success.
🔮 Why it works: Gold represents strength, royalty, and power, making Leo shine even brighter in social and professional settings.
♍ Virgo (August 23 – September 22) – Neatly Folded Handkerchief (Luck: 70%)
Virgos are meticulous and value order. Carrying a neatly folded handkerchief ensures they feel prepared and composed, reducing anxiety and inviting good fortune.
🔮 Why it works: A handkerchief symbolizes cleanliness and organization, which helps Virgos maintain control over their surroundings.
♎ Libra (September 23 – October 22) – Rose Quartz Crystal (Luck: 85%)
Libras seek harmony and love, and a rose quartz crystal enhances their ability to attract positive relationships and avoid conflicts.
🔮 Why it works: Rose quartz emits a gentle, loving energy that helps Libras maintain balance and charm in their interactions.
♏ Scorpio (October 23 – November 21) – Black Obsidian Stone (Luck: 92%)
Scorpios have intense energy and need protection from negativity. A black obsidian stone shields them from harmful influences while boosting their personal power.
🔮 Why it works: Black obsidian absorbs negative energy and strengthens Scorpios’ natural resilience and intuition.
♐ Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) – Feather Charm (Luck: 78%)
Sagittarius is adventurous and always seeking new experiences. A feather charm symbolizes freedom, luck, and spiritual guidance, ensuring a smooth journey ahead.
🔮 Why it works: Feathers represent travel, wisdom, and divine protection, keeping Sagittarius safe and inspired.
♑ Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – Lucky Coin (Luck: 88%)
Capricorns are ambitious and hardworking. Carrying a lucky coin attracts wealth, success, and stability in their professional and personal lives.
🔮 Why it works: A coin is a universal symbol of prosperity and financial growth, aligning with Capricorn’s disciplined nature.
♒ Aquarius (January 20 – February 18) – Blue Pendant (Luck: 82%)
Aquarius is innovative and intuitive. A blue pendant enhances their creativity, wisdom, and ability to make good decisions.
🔮 Why it works: Blue represents clarity and intelligence, helping Aquarius navigate daily encounters with ease.
♓ Pisces (February 19 – March 20) – Seashell or Pearl (Luck: 90%)
Pisces is deeply connected to the ocean, and a seashell or pearl provides emotional calmness, inspiration, and protection.
🔮 Why it works: Water elements soothe Pisces’ sensitive soul, keeping them in tune with their intuition and creativity.
Carrying a small lucky item that resonates with your zodiac sign can subtly influence your day in positive ways. While luck is never guaranteed, these items serve as symbols of encouragement, motivation, and protection.