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!
«Looks 65,» Selena Gomez Flaunts Her Figure in a Fitted Dress, Sparks Controversy
Selena Gomez is no stranger to the spotlight, but her latest appearance at an award show has sparked a lot of debate online. The singer wore a glamorous white gown, but not everyone was impressed by her choice. Some praised her for her stunning beauty, while others criticized her for looking too old.
A look inspired by Italian stars.
Selena Gomez ditched her usual sleek bun for a glamorous hairstyle that made her look like an Italian movie star. She wore a custom-made white Versace dress that sparkled with sequins and hugged her curves. Her hair was shiny and dark, with a deep side part and a bit of volume at the top. She let her long hair flow down her back, with some shorter pieces framing her face.
She matched her dress with a soft nude lip that enhanced her natural beauty. Her eyes were smoky and dramatic, with long lashes and a hint of shimmer. She also had red nails that added a pop of color to her look. She proved that you don’t need a tight bun to look classy, but you can also rock a loose and luxurious hairstyle.
Her dress got mixed reactions from people.
Selena Gomez’s dress was a white strappy gown with an empire waist and a long train. It showed off her glowing skin and her stunning figure. She was one of the highlights of the SAG Awards 2024, which took place on February 24, 2024, at the Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall in Los Angeles. She was there to promote her show Only Murders in the Building, which was nominated for several awards. Some fans compared her look to Marilyn Monroe.
However, not everyone was a fan of her look. Some people online were not impressed by her choice of dress and her appearance. They said she looked too old, or too boring. One Instagram user even said she looked 65.
This was not the first time Selena Gomez faced negative comments about her looks. Another dress choice of hers causes quite a stir on the internet.
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