Drake Hogestyn spent nearly four decades playing the role of John Black in soap opera Days of Our Lives

Actor Drake Hogestyn has passed away at the age of 70, his family has confirmed.

Hogestyn first appeared on NBC soap Days of Our Lives on January 24, 1986 and starred as the mysterious, yet heroic, spy John Black for an impressive 38 years.

Earlier today (September 29), Hogestyn’s family revealed the actor had passed away at the age of 70, after ‘putting up a unbelievable fight’ since being ‘diagnosed with pancreatic cancer‘.

In a post to Days of Our Lives’ Instagram page, Hogestyn’s family wrote: “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. 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.”

And it’s not taken long for fans of the star to flood to social media to pay their respects and post tributes to the actor – who also featured in series such as Seven Brides for Seven Brothers and Criminal Minds.

One Twitter user said: “RIP Drake, who was a great actor! You will be missed and my condolences go out to your family and friends during this difficult time.”

“Holy…WoW!! Praying for his family, friends and colleagues. I grew up watching him. RIP, Mr. Hogestyn,” another added.

A third commented: “Terribly tragic and sad news, he is a big loss to the industry. Thinking with love of his family, all the actors he’s worked with over the years too – especially Deidre Hall.”

Executive producer of Days of Our Lives, Ken Corday stated, as per Soap Opera Digest: “This is a very difficult one for all of us. Hogey was the ultimate team player, and there are not sufficient words to express how deeply he will be missed. His impact on our show, personally and professionally, was profound and will forever remain unmatched.”

Kassie DePaiva – who played Eve Donovan on the soap – said in a post to Twitter: “I’m so saddened by this news. One of the kindest people I have ever worked with. What an amazing life he lived. He will be missed. He made the world a better place.”

If you’ve been affected by any of these issues and want to speak to someone in confidence, contact the American Cancer Society on 1-800-227-2345 or via their live chat feature, available 24/7 every day of the year.