Actor Drake Hogestyn, known for his role as John Black on the soap opera “Days of Our Lives,” has died following a battle with cancer, his family announced on Saturday. He was 70 years old.

“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,” reads a statement from the Hogestyn family, which was posted to the Days of Our Lives Instagram account. “After putting up an unbelievable fight, he passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.”

Other news outlets, including Variety and the Hollywood Reporter, have also reported his passing.

The family’s statement describes Hogestyn as the “most amazing husband, father, papa, and actor,” and highlighted his love of performing for the “Days of Our Lives” audience and working with the show’s cast, crew and production team.

“We love him and we will miss him all the Days of Our Lives,” the statement said.
Hogestyn made his “Days of Our Lives” debut in 1986, according to IMDb.