Stephen Nichols honored Drake Hogestyn one year after his death.
It’s been one year since Days of Our Lives star Drake Hogestyn (John) passed away from a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Hogestyn’s good friend and on-screen partner in crime, Stephen Nichols (Steve), is remembering him on the anniversary of his death. Taking to Instagram, Nichols shared a video filled with memories of Hogestyn.
There were notes to him, clips from special occasions, behind-the-scenes fun, a nod to his signature saying “swing for the fences,” along with the cast walking in Hogestyn’s honor at PanCAN’s PurpleStride last spring.
In his caption, Nichols opened up about the day he learned his long-time friend was gone.
“I remember so vividly — one year ago today — getting the news that Drake had passed. Lisa and I were sitting in a theater in Burbank, having just watched a short film made by one of our #Days directors. In the middle of the Q&A, an email came in. Just like that…Drake was gone,” the Peacock soap star shared.
Nichols revealed that despite knowing how sick Hogestyn was, nothing prepared him for the loss he felt then and still feels now.
“Even though I knew the day would come, it hit me like a punch. And it still does. Like so many of my colleagues — and everyone lucky enough to know him — I find it hard to believe he’s not here… telling stories, lifting spirits, spreading his love and positivity everywhere he went. Drake, you left your mark, buddy. On me, and on the hearts of so many others,” Nichols expressed.
The heartfelt Instagram post was flooded with comments from Nichols’ Days of Our Lives co-stars and fans showing love for his words to remember Hogestyn.
“Love you Stephen. Please give hugs and kisses to my days family,” wrote Christie Clark (Carrie). Mary Beth Evans (Kayla) and Cherie Jimenez (Gabi) responded with heart and care emojis.
One fan stated, “Sending love to all of you, all of us, who were connected to and by Drake ⏳,” while another said, “I can’t believe it’s been a year…he is so deeply missed. ❤️🙏🙏🙏”
“Thank you for continuing to share and shine his light, @stephen_e_nichols!” declared a fan.
In November, Days of Our Lives will celebrate its 60th anniversary with some major cast returns. Hogestyn and John’s absence will be glaring on that milestone occasion for fans and his co-stars.
Days of Our Lives airs weekdays on Peacock.
