Drake Hogestyn, who played John Black on the beloved soap opera Days of our livess, passed away at the age of 70, one day before his 71st birthday tomorrow.

The news was confirmed by the long-running show’s social media account, where the statement was released: “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. 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,” the statement continued. “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,” read the message from the TV star’s family.

Hogestyn first began playing John Black in 1986, with a hiatus from 2009 to 2011, after which he returned to the popular character until his death. His character’s major turning point was the revelation that he was actually the presumed dead Roman Brady (originated by Wayne Northrop) after plastic surgery and amnesia.

Executive producer of the NBC-Peacock show, Ken Corday, said in a statement, per Soap Opera Digest: “This is a very difficult issue for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player and there are not enough words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, both personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unparalleled.”

Born on September 29, 1953 in Fort Wayne, Indiana, the future soap veteran attended college on a baseball scholarship, where he earned a double master’s degree in microbiology and applied sciences with the goal of becoming an oral surgeon. He was drafted by two Major League Baseball teams (the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Yankees).

An injury in 1977 ended his baseball career, leading him to turn to entertainment. His entry began when he was chosen as one of 30 actors in a pool of 75,000 applicants for a nationwide talent search conducted by Columbia Pictures. After completing the studio’s training program, he made his TV debut in 1982 on CBS’ short-lived Seven brides for seven brothers (vs. that of a then 12-year-old River Phoenix).

Colleague Nancy Lee Grahn, who starred in another esteemed soap opera, General hospital, wrote on X: “My deepest condolences to the family, friends and fans of Drake Hogestyn. What a sweet, sweet, gracious man.”