Deidre Hall is mourning the loss of her longtime co-star and friend Drake Hogestyn.
Last weekend, Drake died at the age of 70 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
On Days of Our Lives, Drake played John Black, who fell in love with Dr. Marlena Evans, played by Deidre, 76.
Their fan-favorite romance went on to win them the Soap Opera Digest Award for Favorite Couple in 2005.
On Wednesday (Oct. 2), Deidre released a statement remembering Drake.
Keep reading to find out more…“For nearly 4 decades, Marlena Evans and I have loved the same man. Marlena’s John is an iconic hero, unfailingly rescuing her from all matter of villains,” Deidre told Access Hollywood while referencing her and Drake‘s characters.
“My acting partner was incredibly professional from the moment he entered the studio; flawless in his preparation and ready for any eventuality in any scene,” she continued.
“He was gracious and kind to everyone, from the executive staff to the night crew. Drake loved what he did and adored and respected everyone with whom he did it. Having said that, we always knew that his two greatest loves were his family and the Yankees,” Deidre added.
“Victoria and their children were truly the center of his life” she concluded. “Drake is dearly loved by everyone who ever knew him and he will be missed beyond measure. We will continue, as he always encouraged us, to swing for the fences.”
At this time, it’s currently unclear if Days of Our Lives will be addressing the absence of Drake Hogestyn as John Black or not, or if it will be written into the character’s storyline.
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