'Days of Our Lives' icon Drake Hogestyn dies day before 71st birthday

29 Sep 2024, 13:43 by Karen Butler · UPI

Sept. 29 (UPI) -- Days of Our Lives icon Drake Hogestyn has died of pancreatic cancer at the age of 70.

"It's with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn. He was thrown the curve ball of his life when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but he faced the challenge with incredible strength and determination," a statement from Hogestyn's family posted on the soap opera's Instagram page Saturday.

"After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones," the message continued. "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."