Longtime “Days of our Lives” star Drake Hogestyn died Saturday after a battle with pancreatic cancer — just one day before his 71st birthday.

Hogestyn, who played John Black on the hit soap opera for almost four decades, “passed away peacefully” surrounded by loved ones, the show’s official Instagram announced.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” the statement said. “He was hit with the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he rose to the challenge with incredible strength and determination.

“After fighting an incredible battle, he passed away peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. He was the most wonderful husband, father, daddy 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 we will miss him all the days of our lives.”

Hogestyn was born in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He played college baseball at the University of South Florida and double majored in microbiology and applied sciences, according to Soap Opera Digest.

He planned to become an oral surgeon, but was instead drafted by the Cardinals and then the Yankees, who selected Hogestyn in the final round of the 1976 MLB Draft. He played in the organization’s minor league system until injuries derailed his career.

“Those who can stay injury free and keep their heads together and keep their weight down, those are the ones that go up,” he told MiLB in 2020. “But when you’re in the last round and you get involved in an injury …no investment is required there. And I knew that.”

He moved to Los Angeles after being selected for acting training at Columbia Pictures.

The actor was cast as the character of John Black – a mysterious police officer, private investigator and secret agent in the show. Hogestyn starred in the successful soap opera for 38 years and filmed more than 4,200 episodes.

Other credits include “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers,” a guest role on “Criminal Minds” and acting in the Hallmark holiday film “Christmas Tree Lane.”

Hogestyn’s castmates remembered the actor as an “incredible man.”

Alison Sweeney, who played Sami Brady on the show, wrote on X “Drake was an incredible man. He was funny, generous and thoughtful. He cared about every scene, every person. He loved Days, the fans, and shared that passion with everyone on set. My heart breaks for his family, they meant the world to him. He was such a big part of my life at Days. I will miss him terribly and cherish every story, every joke and every hug.”

‘I will always love you. You were more than just my TV dad, in my eyes you were my dad. Thank you for everything you have taught me and the love you have given me. The world has lost a true hero. I miss and love you so much, Drake. Rest in Peace Dad,” said Christopher Sean, who played his television son on “DOOL.”

“So sad to hear that Drake Hogestyn has passed away,” said Genie Francis, who appeared on the show for two years. “What a wonderful and kind man. It was a pleasure to work with him. I always loved how much he loved his wife and children.”

He is survived by his wife Victoria Post, his four children Whitney, Alexandra, Rachael and Ben and seven grandchildren.