Biggest bombshell! New DOOL writer shares final story of John Days of our lives spoilers
The man behind the legend, actor Drake Hogestyn, tragically passed away in September 2024 following a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. His loss left a profound void—
one not only in the fabric of DOOL’s long-running story but in the hearts of castmates and fans alike. Now, as the new head writers, Swickley and Ford, step into the formidable shoes
left behind by Ron Carlivati, they face the challenge of honoring both the character and the legendary actor in what promises to be a milestone farewell.
Crafting a Goodbye That Matters
The task facing the new writers was, by all accounts, Herculean. How do you write off a character so deeply embedded in the very soul of a show—without betraying his legacy or the actor who brought him to life?
John Black, a character central to Days of Our Lives for decades, wasn’t just another Salem resident. He was a romantic hero, a family man, and a fearless adventurer. Played by Hogestyn with intensity, grace, and sincerity, John became one of the most cherished characters in soap opera history. His departure needed to reflect not just the conclusion of a fictional journey, but a tribute to the real-life man who lived and breathed that role.
Swickley and Ford took the reins during one of the most delicate transitions in the show’s history. They were aware of the whispers of hope, the possibility that Hogestyn might recover enough to return to the set. For months, storylines were written to accommodate that glimmer. But as time wore on and reality set in, the writers were tasked with something no soap writer envies—bringing an end to a story that fans never wanted to see conclude.
An Emotional Exit Rooted in Love and Legacy
In an emotional statement, the new writing duo shared their thought process: “We had to write something that honored not just the legacy of John Black, but also the extraordinary life and talent of Drake Hogestyn. This was never going to be a simple ‘exit’—it was a farewell decades in the making.”
John’s departure will be layered in heartbreak, memory, and grace. The story is set to focus on his final mission—an overseas humanitarian effort that takes a tragic turn. While details are being kept tightly under wraps, insiders confirm that the storyline will include letters, memories, and video messages left behind for his loved ones, particularly his soulmate, Marlena Evans.
John and Marlena—one of the greatest love stories in soap history—will get the poignant closure they deserve. Their final scenes together are expected to be heart-wrenching, yet full of deep reverence for the bond that sustained them through countless trials. “It’s going to be raw, powerful, and ultimately, beautiful,” said Swickley.
Drake Hogestyn’s Blessing
Before his passing, Hogestyn reportedly gave his blessing for how his exit would be portrayed. This gave the writers an emotional anchor—a chance to construct a story true to the actor’s wishes and tone. “Drake wanted John to leave with honor,” said a producer close to the show. “He didn’t want shock or scandal. He wanted something that would elevate John’s legacy, not tear it down.”
And that’s exactly what the new team has delivered. This is not a character disappearing quietly off-screen or lost in a last-minute twist. This is a heroic ending for a heroic man.
The 60th Anniversary Connection
In a stroke of poetic timing, John Black’s farewell will coincide with Days of Our Lives’ historic 60th anniversary in November. Swickley and Ford have woven his departure into a larger tapestry that honors the show’s enduring legacy.
“John Black is Days of Our Lives,” Ford emphasized. “He’s been a compass, a protector, and a romantic icon for generations. His exit couldn’t just be about mourning—it had to reflect what the show stands for.”
Expect to see classic characters returning to Salem to pay their respects, in what producers are calling a “love letter” to fans and to John Black’s decades-long journey. Flashbacks, emotional reunions, and legacy moments will be the hallmark of this storyline.
Marlena Evans: A Heartbreaking Aftermath
No one will feel John’s absence more than his beloved Marlena Evans. Their love story, a central thread of the soap for over 30 years, is one of resilience, faith, and enduring passion. Marlena’s grief will unfold across several episodes, showing her strength and vulnerability in the face of unimaginable loss.
Sources say actress Deidre Hall delivers some of the finest performances of her career in these scenes. “You’ll see Marlena as you’ve never seen her before,” teased a writer. “She’s devastated, but she’s also finding the courage to honor the man she loved.”
A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten
While fans are already mourning John Black’s impending farewell, the show’s creators are adamant that this isn’t just an end—it’s a tribute. A celebration of everything John Black represented: integrity, courage, and undying love.
“This storyline will resonate for years,” Swickley promised. “It’s going to be one of those defining moments in the history of the show.”
For longtime fans, the emotions will be intense. Viewers who grew up with John Black, who saw him through amnesia, espionage, love affairs, and parenthood, will now walk with him through his final chapter.
The Final Curtain Call
As the curtain slowly closes on John Black’s journey, one thing is certain—Days of Our Lives will never be the same. But his legacy will remain etched into the soul of the show and in the hearts of fans who loved him.
Drake Hogestyn may be gone, but his spirit, his strength, and his unmistakable presence live on in every frame he graced. The final chapter of John Black isn’t just a goodbye—it’s a celebration of a life, a character, and a love story that defined a generation.
