“For nearly 4 decades, Marlena Evans and I have loved the same man.”
Days of Our LivesiconDeidre Hallis breaking her silence on the loss of longtime friend and TV husband Drake Hogestyn.
Marlenas John is an iconic hero, unfailingly rescuing her from all matter of villains.
Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn.JC Olivera/Getty
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.
Drake is dearly loved by everyone who ever knew him and he will be missed beyond measure.
Deidre Hall and Drake Hogestyn as Marlena Evans and John Black on ‘Days of Our Lives’.NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty
We will continue, as he always encouraged us, to swing for the fences.
Hogestyn died on Sept. 28, just one day shy of his 71st birthday.
His popularity was hugely influenced by his chemistry and onscreen romance with Halls Marlena.
Hogestyns finalDaysepisode aired on Sep. 9, while Hall last graced the show in August.
“You were more than just my TV father in my eyes you were my dad.
Thank you for everything you taught me and the love you gave me.
The world lost a true hero.
Miss and love you so much, Drake.
Rest in peace, Dad.”
Such a wonderful and kind man.
It was a pleasure to work with him.
I always loved how much he loved his wife and children."
Hogestyns death was first announced in a statement from his family, shared on the long-running soap opera’sInstagram account.
“It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Drake Hogestyn.
He was the most amazing husband, father, papa, and actor.”
We love him and we will miss him all the days of our lives."
