Popular Daytime Soap Star Dies at 70

While some people use daytime soaps to launch their careers, just paying their dues, a handful of stars stay on these shows and do very well in the process.

Susan Lucci is probably one of the most iconic names in soap operas, but Drake Hogestyn could be her male counterpart in terms of longevity on daytime TV.

Sadly, Hogestyn passed away this weekend at the age of 70.

A Star is Gone

The “Days of Our Lives” star’s death was confirmed by his family in a public statement.

Its social media posting stated, "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."

Hogestyn started his acting career in 1982 with a recurring role on “Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.”

It is not often you get a gig like that coming right out of the gate, but it put everyone on notice that there was a new rising TV star on the block.

He then landed a one-time role on “Otherworld” while also landing several TV movie roles.

Then came the big break. In 1986, he landed a role in “Days of Our Lives,” and that is where he would remain until his death.

He did have a few other projects, mostly TV movies, but he also landed an episode of Criminal Minds in 2018.

But for the most part, it was “Days of Our Lives” paying the bills, credited with appearing in 4,290 episodes during his career.

These stars don’t make crazy money, but the top-paid actors and actresses are knocking back six figures, so Hogestyn was doing okay for himself.

Rest in peace, sir, as your fans and friends on the show will miss you.