CNN
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Actor Drake Hogestyn, known for his role as John Black in the soap opera ‘Days of Our Lives’, has died after a battle with cancer, his family announced on Saturday. He was 70 years old.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He was dealt the last ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he rose to the challenge with incredible strength and determination,” read a statement from the Hogestyn family, posted on the Days of Our Lives Instagram account. “After fighting an incredible battle, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones.”

Other news sources, including Variety and the Hollywood Reporter, have also reported his death.

The family’s statement described Hogestyn as the “most amazing husband, father, daddy and actor,” and highlighted his love of performing for the “Days of Our Lives” audience and working with the show’s cast, crew and production team .

“We love him and we will miss him all the days of our lives,” the statement said.
According to IMDb, Hogestyn made his “Days of Our Lives” debut in 1986.