Important Notice: At 70 Years Old, Days of Our Lives Icon Drake Hogestyn Dies

Drake Hogestyn as John Black in “Days of Our Lives.”Photo byedition.cnn.

After battling pancreatic cancer, actor Drake Hogestyn, best known for playing John Black on the hit soap opera "Days of Our Lives," passed away at the age of 70. His family broke the news on Saturday, stating that he battled his illness with incredible fortitude and tenacity.

We regret to inform you of Drake Hogestyn's passing," the family's statement on the "Days of Our Lives" Instagram account states. "He fought bravely but passed away peacefully, surrounded by those he loved.

Hogestyn was a wonderful actor, father, and husband who genuinely loved his career and his fans, according to his family. Throughout his almost four decades on the show, his passion for performing was clear.

After making her debut on "Days of Our Lives" in 1986, Hogestyn appeared in more than 4,200 episodes. He won multiple Soap Opera Digest Awards for his contributions, including Favorite Couple in 2005 and Hottest Male Star in 1994 and 1995. Both the fans and the community surrounding the show will sincerely miss his presence.