Has Drake Hogestyn’s Final ‘Days of Our Lives’ Episode Aired Yet?
Following the announcement of Days of Our Lives star Drake Hogestyn‘s death, fans may be wondering whether the actor will appear posthumously as the soap’s episodes film far ahead of time.
Hogestyn died on September 28, and his final episode of the daytime hit had already aired prior to his demise. Per a rep for the soap, the last installment “in which Drake appears did air on September 9, 2024.”

DAYS OF OUR LIVES, from left: Drake Hogestyn, Deidre Hall, (Season 45, 2011). photo: Mitchell Haaseth / ©NBC / courtesy Everett Collection
In the episode, Hogestyn’s character, John Black, spends his time sitting on the couch in his penthouse as he shares some touching scenes with his grandson, Tate (Leo Howard), and a last moment with his son Brady (Eric Martsolf). While that episode focused on family time with the three generations of men, Hogestyn shared his final scenes with costar Deidre Hall, who plays his leading lady, Marlena, in the September 5th episode.
At this time, it’s uncertain how the show will proceed in Hogestyn’s absence and what this means for the character of John Black, but stay tuned for any potential updates regarding the topic once they’re revealed.
Hogestyn’s death was announced on September 28th. “It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn,” his family shared in a statement posted by the Days of Our Lives social media page. “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.”
“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,” they added.
Stay tuned for updates about any potential tributes to Hogestyn following the star’s death.
Conversation23 Comments
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I think Days of our Lives has got to come back to free TV, NOW!! A new soap is starting I guess I can watch it to replace DOOL. I am on fixed income and can not afford another streaming service.
The money hording and greedy folks need to think about the older fans. Who can’t watch.
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I absolutely agree with you
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here in australia days and y&r are on 10play for free
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They filmed six months in advance, so that means he was sick A very long time the poor guy, horrible way to go rest in peace
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I noticed he looked ill for quite sometime. I thought he was battling cancer by the way he was looking. My heart and prayers go out to his loved ones
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I know that Soaps are an escape, however in this case, perhaps they should have John die of Pancreatic Cancer… bring the topic to light, have family discussions, encourage men to get checked early and regularly.
It would NOT be the first time a Soap has brought real life issues to the platform. I.e. drinking and driving, alcoholism, domestic abuse…
Let’s have the cry, honour Drake through Johns character…
And have the conversations hopefully to prevent a loved one from dying in the same manner.
REST IN PEACE, Drake Hogestyn.
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I think you are confusing pancreatic cancer with prostate cancer. Men get prostate cancer but anyone can get pancreatic cancer
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People Including celebrities should be allowed their privacy. Not everybody needs to get on a soap box during an illness. It's a personal choice. That's why I think a lot of people were shocked by his death, because his illness wasn't announced to the world. Some people think they are entitled to every facet of someone's life. So much so, It's gotten out of hand. I'm happy to think that he was able to handle his illness In the way that he and family wanted.
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I am still wondering how the death of Bill Hayes was handled.
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Maybe they knew John's death was coming and maybe do a dual tribute to them both so the audience doesn't have to grieve again soon after the other
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No dual tribute. DAYS long ago recorded the episodes dealing with the death of Bill Hayes and his character Doug Williams, and those episodes begin streaming after Thanksgiving. Drake was still alive then and fighting his cancer, and we know now that Drake was not available to be part of those episodes taped in April.
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It was heart breaking to hear of his death But everyone that watches days lately knew he was not well But it's wonderful to know that he was able to keep his illness private. A choice that he and his family probably made. Kudos to his castmates by following his wishes regarding his Illness and not making it spectacle for all to see. May he rest in peace He will be missed by many.
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RIP John/Drake.
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RIP Drake /John Still sad hear passed away favorite actor Days of Our lives.My he RIP
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Things will never be the same with these power couples gone, first Doug and Julie, now John. No more John and Doc
we as fans know that life can be bitter sweet. But all at some point have ro nake that journey too. What i would love to see on this soap going forwardis to create more super couples. Stop destroying the good ones. Steve and Kayla, bo and hope will always be faves. But as life goes on we get old ..make some changes and keep this soap ALIVE!! moving ro Peacock was not a good move you lost a big part of your audience in my opinion.
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Yes Rhonda I too have followed Days for many many years and am saddened for the cast and family much love to you all June from Australia
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RIP Drake/John you will surely be missed! Thoughts and prayers go out to your family and your DOOL family! I’ve watched days for over 50 years (I’m 60 so I’ve been watching as long as I can remember). When I was in school I would record it so I wouldn’t miss anything. The only time I refused to watch it was when Marlena was possessed by the devil (that was a very stupid story line) Hopefully they will come up with a goodbye story line for both him and Bill/Doug better than what they had for John/Victor!! The tribute/goodbye for Victor could have and should have been MUCH better!! Rest in peace!!
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solong Drake. Sleep in peace. I'm still in shock...you were my 90's heartthrob. Forever handsome
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I have been watching Days for 60 years; I am 78. When he and Marlene left years ago, I dreamed about their coming back. Like everyone, when he “came back from Greece” it was obvious he was ill. His fortitude got him through. Prayers for his family, viewers and coworkers. He will be sorely, missed by all!
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Very said new been watching DAYS OU LIVE 35 YR .JOHN WILL BE MISS RIP JOHN
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Rip Drake/John 😢💔 my prayers and thoughts goes out to his family and friends and co-worker and all his Fans.I'm gonna miss seeing you on Days of Our lives. I've watched for over 52yrs....You will be dearly missed 😢 💔 Go rest high on that mountain.
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In the picture he is holding on to a pillow ☹️ He was probably in a lot of pain I hope he is at peace.
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I loved Drakes character John Black. Especially the years of Marlena, Stefano, Christian and John with their love rectangle. That thunderbird on his back, he was unstoppable. Now that's a fact. Soaps aren't the same. RIP. Drake. Job well done.
