Drake Hogestyn, beloved for his portrayal of John Black on Days of Our Lives, faced a life-altering incident that took him off-screen for several months. In 2017, an on-set accident during a routine stunt left Hogestyn with severe head injuries, sidelining him from the show he had been a part of since 1986. This article delves into the details of the mishap, its aftermath, and Hogestyn’s journey back to Salem.
The On-Set Accident: A Routine Stunt Turns Dangerous
On May 5, 2017, Hogestyn was performing a stunt that required him to run full speed and crash headfirst into a door. The intention was for the door to fling open upon impact. However, the prop was not set up correctly, and when Hogestyn collided with the door, it didn’t budge. The result was a severe head injury that required immediate hospitalization .
Immediate Aftermath: Hospitalization and Recovery
Following the accident, Hogestyn was hospitalized for his injuries. He was later released and began his recovery at his home in Malibu, surrounded by his wife, Victoria, and their family . The severity of the injury was not publicly disclosed, but it was clear that the recovery process would be lengthy.
The Impact on Days of Our Lives Storylines
Hogestyn’s absence from the set had significant implications for the show’s storylines. His character, John Black, was central to many ongoing plots, and his sudden absence required the writers to make adjustments. Temporary recasts and adjustments to existing storylines were implemented to account for his absence.
The Return to Salem: A Long-Awaited Comeback
After months of recovery, Hogestyn made his return to Days of Our Lives. His comeback was met with enthusiasm from fans and cast members alike. In an interview with Soap Opera Digest, Hogestyn expressed his gratitude for the support he received during his recovery and his appreciation for the opportunity to return to the show .
Adjusting to the Demands of the Role Post-Injury
Returning to the demanding role of John Black was not without its challenges. Hogestyn admitted to concerns about memorizing lines and performing scenes after his head injury. However, with the support of his co-stars, particularly Deidre Hall, he was able to regain his confidence and continue portraying his character with the same dedication as before .
The Importance of Safety on Set
This incident underscores the importance of safety protocols on television and film sets. While stunts are a common part of many productions, ensuring that props and setups are correctly prepared is crucial to prevent accidents and protect the well-being of cast and crew members.
Fan Reactions: Support and Appreciation
Fans of Days of Our Lives expressed their support for Hogestyn during his recovery. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of encouragement and well wishes. Upon his return, fans celebrated his comeback, expressing their joy at seeing him back in Salem and continuing his role as John Black.
A Testament to Dedication and Resilience
Hogestyn’s journey from injury to recovery is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his resilience. Despite the challenges he faced, he remained committed to returning to Days of Our Lives and delivering the performances that fans had come to love.
Looking Ahead: The Future of John Black
With Hogestyn back in the role of John Black, fans can look forward to more compelling storylines and character development. His return adds depth to the show’s narratives and provides continuity for viewers who have followed his character’s journey over the years.
Conclusion
Drake Hogestyn’s on-set accident in 2017 was a pivotal moment in both his career and the history of Days of Our Lives. His recovery and return to the show highlighted his commitment to his role and the support of his colleagues and fans. As John Black continues to navigate the complexities of Salem, viewers can appreciate the resilience and dedication that Hogestyn brings to his portrayal.
FAQs
1. What happened to Drake Hogestyn on the set of Days of Our Lives?
In 2017, Drake Hogestyn suffered a severe head injury during a stunt on the set of Days of Our Lives. The accident occurred when a door, intended to fling open upon impact, remained stationary, leading to Hogestyn colliding with it at full speed.
2. How long was Drake Hogestyn absent from Days of Our Lives?
Hogestyn was sidelined for several months following the accident. The exact duration of his absence was not publicly disclosed, but he returned to the set after a period of recovery.
3. Did the accident affect the show’s storylines?
Yes, Hogestyn’s absence required the show’s writers to adjust storylines and implement temporary recasts to account for his character’s absence.
4. How did Drake Hogestyn feel about returning to the show?
Hogestyn expressed gratitude for the support he received
