Drake Hogestyn‘s cause of death has been determined after the soap star died last month, just one day shy of his 71st birthday.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office has confirmed that the Days of Our Lives star died of pancreatic cancer on Saturday, Sept. 28, according to Hogestyn’s death certificate obtained by TMZ.
Hogestyn’s death was announced in a statement by the long-running show’s social media account: “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,” the statement continued. “We love him and we will miss him all the Days of our Lives.”
A former MLB draft whose career was cut short by an injury in 1977, Hogestyn went on to play John Black on Days of Our Lives in 1986.
Following a hiatus from 2009-2011, he returned to the popular character until his death. John’s main turning point was the reveal that he was actually the assumed-dead Roman Brady (originated by Wayne Northrop) after plastic surgery and memory loss.