Kirsten Storms Shares Emotional Reflections on the Passing of ‘Days of Our Lives’ Star Drake Hogestyn
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Kirsten Storms, a well-known actress, recently opened up about her feelings towards the passing of her former TV co-star, Drake Hogestyn, in a heartfelt interview with TV Insider. The news of Hogestyn’s death in September 2024 at the age of 70 deeply impacted Storms, who had worked alongside him on the popular soap opera, Days of Our Lives, from 1999 to 2004.
Despite the passage of time, Storms expressed that the reality of Hogestyn’s absence hasn’t fully sunk in for her. She described him as her favourite person on set, a true legend who exuded happiness, positivity, and professionalism in his work. His sudden passing left her deeply saddened, and she continues to grapple with the shock and grief of losing him.
During her tenure on Days of Our Lives, Storms not only had the opportunity to work closely with Hogestyn professionally but also formed a personal connection with him through his son, Ben Hogestyn, whom she dated for a couple of years. Storms fondly recalled the time spent with the Hogestyn family, highlighting the close bond she shared with Drake.
Drake Hogestyn, who portrayed the character of John Black for an impressive 38 years on the show, was a beloved figure both on and off-screen. His presence and contributions to the series were invaluable, and his passing left a significant void in the hearts of his colleagues and fans alike.
Days of Our Lives executive producer Ken Corday paid tribute to Hogestyn, praising him as the “ultimate team player” whose impact on the show was immeasurable. Corday emphasised the profound loss felt by the cast and crew, underscoring Hogestyn’s irreplaceable role in shaping the show’s legacy.
Reflecting on her overall experience on Days of Our Lives, Storms acknowledged the challenges and rewards of working in the fast-paced world of soap operas. Transitioning from other forms of television to the demanding schedule of daily filming was eye-opening for her, and she credited the show for teaching her valuable lessons in dedication and hard work.
In particular, Storms highlighted the influence of veteran actress Deidre Hall, who played her on-screen mother, in shaping her work ethic and approach to acting. Hall’s unwavering commitment to excellence inspired Storms to push herself and prove her capabilities, leading to invaluable growth and development in her craft.
After bidding farewell to Days of Our Lives in 2004, Storms moved on to portray the character of Maxine on General Hospital, marking two decades on the show in May 2025. Her departure from Days of Our Lives was a poignant moment for her, as she cherished the bonds forged with her co-stars and crew during her time on the series.
In conclusion, Kirsten Storms’ candid reflections on Drake Hogestyn’s passing offer a glimpse into the profound impact of loss within the entertainment industry. As she continues to navigate the memories and legacy of her beloved TV dad, her tribute serves as a touching reminder of the enduring connections forged through shared experiences in the world of television drama.