It’s the kind of news that stops you in your tracks. Fans of Days of Our Lives were heartbroken to learn about the passing of soap icon Drake Hogestyn, best known for his unforgettable role as John Black. But the emotional gravity hit even harder when actress Kirsten Storms—a beloved soap star in her own right—broke her silence.

Her words weren’t just a statement. They were a tribute. A love letter. A raw, unfiltered outpouring of grief that only someone who truly knew the man behind the character could express.

So let’s take a closer look at what she said, why it matters, and how the loss of Drake Hogestyn is rippling across the soap opera world.

Who Was Drake Hogestyn? A Daytime Icon Remembered

Before diving into Kirsten’s heartfelt tribute, it’s important to remember who we lost.

Drake Hogestyn wasn’t just a character—he was a cornerstone. His portrayal of John Black helped redefine daytime drama. Mysterious past? Check. Sweeping romances? You bet. A fanbase that stayed loyal for decades? Absolutely.

From supercouple status with Marlena Evans (played by Deidre Hall) to gripping story arcs that made fans gasp, Drake was “Days of Our Lives.”

Kirsten Storms Finally Speaks Out

After days of silence following the heartbreaking announcement, Kirsten Storms took to social media with a post that felt like a punch to the gut—in the best possible way. It was real. It was vulnerable. And it was filled with love.

“I still can’t wrap my head around it. You always made me feel like family. This hurts, Drake.”

Her words hit hard. And they weren’t just for show. This was a woman grieving someone who had a real impact on her life and career.

Kirsten and Drake: More Than Co-Stars

While Kirsten Storms is most famously known for her roles on General Hospital and Days of Our Lives (as Belle Black), her connection to Drake wasn’t just professional.

They shared scenes. They shared laughs. And over the years, they built something that went beyond the camera—a bond rooted in mutual respect and warmth.

The Day Soap Fans Dreaded

Drake’s passing wasn’t just another celebrity headline. It was personal for longtime soap watchers. These are characters people grew up with, cried with, and celebrated with. Losing someone like Drake is like losing a part of your own history.

Kirsten echoed that sentiment in her message.

“You were more than a co-star. You were a mentor, a protector, and a constant.”

A Legacy That Transcends Time

Drake Hogestyn’s career spanned over three decades. That’s no small feat in any industry—let alone daytime television, where scripts change weekly and actors come and go like the tide.

But Drake stayed. And more than that, he evolved. He didn’t just play John Black—he became him.

Behind the Scenes: The Man Beyond the Camera

One of the most touching parts of Kirsten’s tribute was how she described Drake off-set. Not as a soap star. But as a human.

• A father figure to many younger cast members.

• A man who never missed an opportunity to lift someone up.

• A prankster with a heart of gold.

“You always checked in. Always cared. Always asked how I was doing—really doing.”

That kind of authenticity is rare. And it leaves a mark.

Social Media Flooded With Tributes

Kirsten wasn’t alone in her grief. The soap world rallied in unison. Former co-stars, producers, writers—even fans who met Drake at conventions—shared their stories.

The common theme? He was kind. Genuine. Present.

How the Show Will Move Forward

It’s tough to imagine Days of Our Lives without John Black. And though the show must go on, the loss of such a major character—and the actor behind him—creates a gap that won’t easily be filled.

Insiders say the writers are planning a tribute episode. Not just a character sendoff, but something more—something real.

And Kirsten? She’s reportedly involved in honoring him on-screen, too.

Why This Loss Hits So Hard

Let’s be honest—soap operas are emotional by design. But when an actor like Drake Hogestyn dies, it hits different.

He wasn’t just a script. He was a presence. A reminder of the golden age of soaps. And to actors like Kirsten Storms, he was a living legend.

The Power of On-Screen Chemistry

One reason the loss stings is because of the chemistry Drake brought to every scene. Kirsten and Drake had it in spades.

Whether they were sharing tense family moments or softer, emotional scenes, their dynamic pulled viewers in.

“You gave every scene your heart. And it made me better just being next to you,” Kirsten shared.

A Mentor, A Friend, A Family Man

Those who worked with Drake talk about him like family. And that’s exactly what he was—to the cast, crew, and even the audience.

Kirsten’s tribute emphasized that:

“I’ll miss your laugh. Your advice. Your hugs that made everything feel okay again.”

Kirsten Storms: Carrying the Torch

While the loss is deep, Kirsten has become something of a torchbearer. She’s using her voice to remind fans and fellow actors of the importance of kindness, connection, and storytelling.

In many ways, she’s honoring Drake not just with her words—but with her actions.

Words That Heal: Why Kirsten’s Statement Mattered

Grief is heavy. But shared grief? That’s where healing begins.

Kirsten’s message was more than a goodbye. It was an invitation for fans to process, to remember, and to celebrate a man who gave everything to his craft.

What’s Next for the Soap Community?

This isn’t the end. It’s the beginning of a new chapter. A more emotional, grounded, and reflective era.

Writers, actors, and fans alike are already buzzing about how to continue telling stories that matter.

Because that’s what Drake would’ve wanted.

Conclusion: A Life That Touched Millions

Drake Hogestyn may be gone, but his presence lives on—in the hearts of his co-stars, his fans, and every scene he ever graced.

Kirsten Storms’ tribute reminded us that behind every great character is an even greater person. And while we mourn, we also celebrate.

Celebrate the laughs. The tears. The decades of storytelling. And most importantly, the man who helped make it all possible.

Rest in peace, Drake. You were one of a kind.

FAQs

1. How did Kirsten Storms and Drake Hogestyn work together?

They shared storylines on Days of Our Lives, where Kirsten played Belle Black, John Black’s daughter. Their bond extended off-screen, growing into a genuine friendship.

2. What did Kirsten Storms say about Drake Hogestyn’s death?

Kirsten expressed her grief through a heartfelt social media post, highlighting Drake’s kindness, mentorship, and how deeply his loss has affected her.

3. Will Days of Our Lives honor Drake Hogestyn on the show?

Yes. Plans are underway for a special tribute episode to honor both the character John Black and the actor who made him iconic.

4. Why is Drake Hogestyn’s death significant to the soap opera community?

Drake was a legend. His role as John Black helped shape modern daytime drama, and his presence on and off-screen made him beloved by peers and fans alike.

5. How are fans reacting to Kirsten Storms’ tribute?

Fans are overwhelmingly supportive. Many have shared their own memories and praised Kirsten for her vulnerability and grace during such a difficult time.