It has been a sad time for both the cast and fans of “Days of Our Lives,” due to the funeral of John Black, played by the late Drake Hogestyn. Matthew Ashford brought his character of Jack Deveraux back to Salem briefly, telling Soap Opera Digest that his return, “was somber at times.” The plot twist leading to John Black’s death was due to Drake’s inability to continue in the role that he had played for decades.
Matthew Ashford Had Been Concerned About Drake Hogestyn for a Few Years
The actor admits that he had worried about Hogestyn for a couple of years. “He’d hurt himself and had surgery… and I was just worried. The last time we worked together, he just looked entirely different. He was all tied up, and we were rescuing him, and he really did look tied up and beaten.”
“He was always so robustly healthy that when he wasn’t healthy, it was pretty clear,” explains Ashford, who later reached out to the actor. “I said, ‘Hey, I want to come out and visit, see you and [your wife] Victoria.’ But Drake said he was busy, he had something going on,” Ashford told Soap Opera Digest.
Everyone Made the Most of the Difficult Scenes
Drake Hogestyn was ultimately diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and according to Ashford, “Drake was part of the decision to have the storyline happen,” notes Ashford. “I think it was his way of saying, ‘I want John Black to ride off into the sunset, and that it would be an honor to me to not recast him.’ So I saw it as them working with Drake, and Drake working with them and giving them his blessing to write this major story beat.”
“Still, it was a very difficult thing. His John Black will never be replaced.” Shortly after the cast filmed those tragic scenes, Hogestyn passed away in real life. “I felt like Drake spoke. He said what he wanted to say, which was, ‘I’ve always put the show first. This is what was good for the show, and that made it good for me.’ He was a good soldier and a team player all the way,” explains Ashford.
“I kind of feel like everyone made the most of it they could,” remembers Ashford. “And there were beautiful scenes, just lovely things being done by so many people who were very sincere and honest. I was watching the show [on the monitor] in the makeup room or from somewhere off stage, just watching what people were doing. When things are really good, you see it. Everybody was going through so much and just realizing this was a big chapter in the book of Days of Our Lives.”
Soap operas rarely fail to stir drama, but when a beloved face like Matthew Ashford shows up unexpectedly for John Black’s funeral on Days of Our Lives, you can bet fans everywhere sit up and take notice. Ashford, famous for playing Jack Deveraux, made a rare and emotional return that sparked nostalgia, tears, and endless chatter on social media. But what made this return so special? Let’s dive in.
Who Is Matthew Ashford? A Quick Refresher
A Soap Opera Legend
Matthew Ashford isn’t just any daytime actor—he’s an institution. Known for playing the charming but complicated Jack Deveraux since the late ’80s, his presence always promises surprise.
Why Fans Love Jack Deveraux
Jack’s journey from villain to hero to beloved father was a rollercoaster. He represents redemption, love, and family—themes that never go out of style in Salem.
John Black’s Funeral: A Moment That Rocked Salem
A Goodbye No One Was Ready For
John Black was not just a character; he was the heart of Salem. His funeral became more than just a storyline—it felt like losing a friend.
Why Matthew Ashford’s Return Mattered
When Ashford’s Jack arrived at the funeral, fans were shocked. His history with John Black made his appearance meaningful—and emotional.
Matthew Ashford Speaks Out: “It Felt Like Coming Home”
His First Reaction to the Call
“When the producers called, I didn’t hesitate,” Ashford revealed in an exclusive interview. “It felt right.”
The Importance of the Scene
Ashford said the funeral scenes were some of the most emotionally charged moments he’s ever filmed. “We weren’t just acting. We were saying goodbye to a legend.”
Behind the Scenes of the Emotional Episode
Cast Reactions to John Black’s Farewell
Everyone on set felt the weight of the moment. “There wasn’t a dry eye when the cameras stopped,” Ashford said.
How Ashford Prepared for His Role
To reconnect with Jack Deveraux’s mindset, Ashford watched old episodes and re-read scripts. “Jack’s voice is different. Sarcastic but soft. I had to find him again.”
Why Soap Fans Can’t Stop Talking About Matthew’s Return
A Surprise Nobody Saw Coming
The showrunners kept Ashford’s return top secret. The shock on fans’ faces? Priceless.
Twitter Exploded in Reactions
“Jack’s back for John’s funeral?? I’m sobbing!” read one viral post. The hashtags #JackDeveraux and #DOOL lit up in minutes.
Matthew Ashford’s Most Memorable ‘Days of Our Lives’ Moments
Jack and Jennifer’s Epic Love Story
Who could forget the unforgettable rooftop wedding scene? Pure soap gold.
His Heroic Rescue in the Tunnel Disaster
One of Jack’s finest hours—saving lives and winning hearts.
The Legacy of John Black: Why This Funeral Was So Significant
John Black as the Moral Compass
Played by Drake Hogestyn, John was the rock of Salem—a father, friend, and fighter.
A Death That Left a Hole in Salem
Without John, Salem feels… off. Like losing the soul of the show.
What Does This Mean for Jack Deveraux’s Future?
A Possible Full-Time Return?
Fans are buzzing: will Ashford return for good? He teased, “Never say never. Salem always pulls you back.”
New Storylines on the Horizon?
Could Jack help rebuild Salem in John’s honor? Or clash with old enemies? Soap writers love a twist.
How ‘Days of Our Lives’ Keeps Surprising Long-Time Fans
The Power of Unexpected Returns
These shock moments remind fans why they keep watching after decades.
Building Emotional Stakes
Bringing back Jack for this funeral gave the episode real weight—not just drama, but heart.
The Emotional Toll on the Cast and Crew
Real Tears Behind the Camera
“It wasn’t just acting,” Ashford said. “We loved Drake [Hogestyn] like family. His last scenes as John were hard to watch.”
Saying Goodbye to a Co-Star and Friend
Even off-camera, the vibe was heavy. “We felt the loss deeply,” Ashford admitted.
Why Nostalgia Works So Well in Soap Operas
The Magic of Familiar Faces
Fans who grew up with Jack Deveraux felt like an old friend came home. That’s the secret weapon of soaps: memory.
Emotional Connection Over Decades
Soap viewers stick with characters longer than most real-life friends. Jack’s return was like seeing family after years apart.
Fan Reactions: How Viewers Responded to Ashford’s Appearance
Social Media Blew Up
“Did anyone else scream when Jack walked in?” posted one fan.
Memes, Tributes, and Tears
Clips from the funeral went viral, with thousands of fans sharing their favorite Jack and John moments.
Will More Old Characters Return to Salem?
Producers Tease Future Shockers
Insiders suggest more surprise returns could follow Ashford’s. Salem’s door is always open.
Who Could Be Next?
Speculation points to other Deveraux family members or even long-lost villains.
Matthew Ashford’s Final Thoughts on His Return
A Role Close to His Heart
“Jack will always be a part of me,” Ashford said. “Coming back felt right—for John, for the fans, for me.”
A Possible Salem Comeback?
He left the door open: “If they call again, I’ll answer. Salem’s home.”
Conclusion: A Farewell to Remember, A Return to Cherish
Matthew Ashford’s return for John Black’s funeral wasn’t just another soap opera cameo. It was a heartfelt, meaningful moment that tied together years of rich storytelling, beloved characters, and real-life friendships behind the scenes. For fans, it felt like closing a chapter while hinting that the book isn’t done just yet. Will Jack Deveraux walk Salem’s streets again? Time will tell. But for now, viewers are just grateful they got to see this moment unfold—one that reminded them why they fell in love with Days of Our Lives in the first place.
