Like Sand Through an Hourglass: Behind the Scenes of DOOL

[General Days]

On 9/29/2024 at 7:03 AM, brisbydog said:

It was. I heard about it a few days ago. It was clear then it was close. I'm glad he got mostly the privacy he desired. His wife has known him since she was 12. I can't fathom what she is going through. 

Staci posted this:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAfcQxSI23s/

 

For some reason, that link was broken for me. Here's another link to Staci Greason's Drake Hogestyn tribute:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAf_FFZRTah/?hl=en

 

Edited September 30 by General Days
Edited to add screenshot

[Sunrain]

4 minutes ago, General Days said:

For some reason, that link was broken for me. Here's another link to Staci Greason's Drake Hogestyn tribute:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAf_FFZRTah/?hl=en

On 9/29/2024 at 6:03 AM, brisbydog said:

It was. I heard about it a few days ago. It was clear then it was close. I'm glad he got mostly the privacy he desired. His wife has known him since she was 12. I can't fathom what she is going through. 

Staci posted this:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAfcQxSI23s/

 

 

 

 

Edited September 30 by Sunrain

[CanaryFan98]

I give Days kudos for keeping this a secret out of respect for his privacy 

[buffynut]

I'm still in shock over the news. Like just can't believe it.   I haven't watched since Days moved to Peacock, (Global TV to W network in Canada) and only occasionally read the forums, so had no idea whatsoever that Drake was unwell, or that he'd not been on the show lately.   Unlike the older actors who've passed, Drake was still fairly young. I feel like I've lost a friend.  😢

[DisneyBoy]

His natural warmth really brought a lot to the show, at least for me, these last few years. However silly and frustrating the plots were, seeing him connect with his costars sincerely or give someone a hug just lifted my mood.

It is going to be very hard to get used to him not being there. I really hope that there are somehow a good handful of episodes with Drake left to enjoy.

[Frozendiva]

 

Edited September 30 by Frozendiva
Wrong link

[General Days]

44 minutes ago, Frozendiva said:

https://x.com/dailydool/status/1840775943272497277t=qbYKuMGzPQuuGUrZVB9yUg&s=19

I'm getting a "this page doesn't exist" error. What was the post?

[Retired at last]

I am just hoping that without John, that doesn't leave Marlena/Deidre just to be Hattie on the stupid soap, with occasional hypnosis therapy sessions with various Salemites. 

[Ohiopirate02]

20 minutes ago, Retired at last said:

I am just hoping that without John, that doesn't leave Marlena/Deidre just to be Hattie on the stupid soap, with occasional hypnosis therapy sessions with various Salemites. 

Somehow I cannot imagine the new writing team continuing with Body and Soul after all of Ron's material has aired. But, I do hope the new writers give Deidre material she feels comfortable doing. If she wants to step back from being Marlena for a little while and play Hattie, then I am all for it. 

[Frozendiva]

2 hours ago, General Days said:

I'm getting a "this page doesn't exist" error. What was the post?

No idea what happened to the link. I edited it and it should now work. 

[DisneyBoy]

Still doesn't work. Summarize please?

[Frozendiva]

Patricia Darbo Instagram link.

https://x.com/dailydool/status/1840775943272497277

 

[General Days]

I watched Patrika Darbo's tribute to Drake Hogestyn right on Instagram, earlier. 

Warning: it may make you cry.

https://www.instagram.com/darbopatrika/reel/DAhlQVOP7Of/ 

[CanaryFan98]

4 hours ago, Retired at last said:

I am just hoping that without John, that doesn't leave Marlena/Deidre just to be Hattie on the stupid soap, with occasional hypnosis therapy sessions with various Salemites. 

Well probably until Ron's material runs out but since Ron is gone I don't think that will be the case 8 months from now.

[boes]

1 hour ago, General Days said:

I watched Patrika Darbo's tribute to Drake Hogestyn right on Instagram, earlier. 

Warning: it may make you cry.

https://www.instagram.com/darbopatrika/reel/DAhlQVOP7Of/ 

That was really wonderful.

[SouthernChick]

 

[CanaryFan98]

 

[Frozendiva]

 

[Sunrain]

Stephen Nichols posted on Instagram:

"My dear friend, Drake Hogestyn has passed. This loss is overwhelming.

Drake was a man’s man with a huge heart. He was kind, respectful and honest. I never heard him speak a negative word about anyone. He was on a very short list of exceptional people I have known in my lifetime. He was a mentor without knowing it. I learned so much from Drake by his example. Humility, perseverance, forgiveness. We had long talks in his dressing room after working on our scenes. He spoke so lovingly about his beautiful family who he cherished above all else. Drake would tell me about his history, playing baseball, coming to Hollywood, getting into acting. He also shared triumphs and a few heartaches having to do with his long career on Days with such honesty. I felt privileged to be a sounding board, to have his trust. And he had mine. I could tell him anything; and recently when I was going through a rough time when I lost my sister to cancer, he was there for me and he listened and asked how I was doing daily.  

Drake was a storyteller. Ask anyone around the studio. He could spin a tale, and he remembered his adventures in such detail and always throwing in baseball metaphors whenever he could. Drake loved his time as a ballplayer. And on our Days softball team he was, of course, our star player.

Drake and I began our working relationship in 1986. No one hit the stage with more commitment and enthusiasm than Drake. He inspired and energized me and everyone around him. He loved coming to work and showed up early to workout in the wee hours of the morning. I’ll miss hearing the whirring of his stationary bike and the clanging of dumbbells-we were dressing room neighbors.

Just being in Drake’s presence was enough to get a jolt of positivity. He was one of those special souls who exuded joy and love for life. The Days of Our Lives cast, crew, and fans (who he was always so kind to) have suffered a great loss. It has been palpable how much Drake was loved and has been missed during these months without him at the studio."

[Sunrain]

Judi Evans's tribute to Drake:

“It bears repeating, Drake always told the best stories.

A kind and gentle person, we’d always have a laugh when we were working together, often laughing until my sides hurt.

I remember, back in the 80s, there was a flirtation between “Roman” and Adrienne when we worked together at the construction company, and Drake had to dance around “constructing” in a sweaty tank top to the song “Macho Man”… in Salem… in the winter. He was hilarious and approached it with gusto and happy enthusiasm, as he did everything.

He was a man who took his work seriously, but never himself. He was always game for anything and such a joy to be around. He made the world around him a funnier, better, sweeter place… the light will never be as bright again…

And he was a Yankee! I was a fan from the minute I met him ❤️⚾️”

https://www.instagram.com/p/DAigkcBxuku/?img_index=1

Tamara Braun also commented on JE's wall: "He took his work seriously, but never himself.” So true. Game for anything. Always found the fun in everything. The joy. 🩷"

 

And MBE's post: 

Edited October 1 by Sunrain

[Desperado]

Drake really made a positive difference in people’s lives, so commendable, so sad for those closest to him and his fans.

He’s been on my screen since the 80s and more recently, I thought he was great as a dad to Paul in embracing his son’s homosexuality, a great example to macho dads everywhere.

Just realizing that Dick Van Dyke has outlived him. I thought the show was doing DVD a favour by bringing him on as John’s dad, but it may have been a favour to Drake instead. 😭😭

I’m assuming we’ll only see how the show will write of his passing in the spring. Damn that 8-month delay.

Can someone remind me when we’re to see Doug’s funeral?

[DisneyBoy]

December :(

1 hour ago, Desperado said:

I thought he was great as a dad to Paul in embracing his son’s homosexuality, a great example to macho dads everywhere.

Same.

1 hour ago, Desperado said:

Just realizing that Dick Van Dyke has outlived him. I thought the show was doing DVD a favour by bringing him on as John’s dad, but it may have been a favour to Drake instead. 😭😭

I was wondering the same thing as well. I was so hoping for another DVD appearance, since father and son had spent a lifetime apart.

1 hour ago, Desperado said:

I'm assuming we’ll only see how the show will write of his passing in the spring. Damn that 8-month delay.

Likely. I'm lost as to how they would explain John being out of sight for 8 months though, as Brady is possibly on trial and Marlena waits for strawberries.

....say he's on a mission...?

This is going to be so sad you guys 😔

[CanaryFan98]

4 hours ago, Desperado said:

Drake really made a positive difference in people’s lives, so commendable, so sad for those closest to him and his fans.

He’s been on my screen since the 80s and more recently, I thought he was great as a dad to Paul in embracing his son’s homosexuality, a great example to macho dads everywhere.

Just realizing that Dick Van Dyke has outlived him. I thought the show was doing DVD a favour by bringing him on as John’s dad, but it may have been a favour to Drake instead. 😭😭

I’m assuming we’ll only see how the show will write of his passing in the spring. Damn that 8-month delay.

Can someone remind me when we’re to see Doug’s funeral?

Doug's funeral is in December 

I'm sure they'll explain John is on a mission or something. Or those events happen offscreen but he's "there" when it happened.

[Sunrain]

These tidbits raise my hopes somewhat: “Due to the advanced filming schedule, it will be next summer, likely July sweeps, before the show tackles John’s death and honors Drake. There’s no question that the show will bring back many fan faves to ensure this tribute is done right.” (Monstersandcritics) According to SOD, there’s no word yet from the show if Drake’s passing will be written into the storyline. I won't believe he will be sent off like they did with Jed Allan and Josh Taylor many years ago.

TB and some of Drake's former co-stars also paid tribute to him, including Andrea Barber. 

Tamara Braun: “What an honor it was to work with you, to get to know you, to hear your incredible stories. Your kindness and generosity of spirit were always exemplary. Your work ethic, your life ethic, family ethic…. Oh how you loved your family so deeply. I loved to watch your face light up while speaking about your wife, kids and grandkids. You beamed. My heart hurts the most for them. What a loss.💔 I’m so grateful that Days put you, me and Stephen together recently for a fun filled caper story. The three of us laughed so much while we ran lines, while we shot, while we played. We just laughed, laughed, laughed. What a treat. I will cherish that time and the memory of you. You, kind sir, sure did love life and knew how to enjoy all its gifts. Boy did I admire that in you. You are already greatly missed. Much love and respect always, Drake. 🩷🕊️⏳”

Michael Easton (ex-Tanner): “Mourning the loss of our friend Drake Hogestyn. Drake was talented and kind and a true gentleman. On my first day on set, I had no idea what I was doing and he knocked on my door, introduced himself and welcomed me to the show and I’ll never forget how much that meant to me. He loved talking about his family, dogs and baseball and he was loved by all who knew him. My deepest sympathies to his family, his friends, the cast and crew of DOOL and all of his fans. Rest in peace, brother. #drakehogestyn #dool”

George DelHoyo (ex-Orpheus): “Simply put, Drake was as gracious, kind, patient and generous a man as I’ve known His ultimate departure is felt as a deep loss to all who have had the privilege of sharing the stage with him. God hold and keep his sweet soul. And to you, his beloved family, I send my deepest condolences and love. Our world was better for him.”

Andrea Barber (ex-Carrie, before CC): “Although our time together on Days of Our Lives was short, I’ve never forgotten your kindness and charm. Rest peacefully, Drake. ❤️🕊”

[SouthernChick]

 

[SouthernChick]

31 minutes ago, SouthernChick said:

 

Christie has talked to Deidre and said she is taking it hard. As to be expected.

[Artsda]

All the tributes have been heartbreaking to read, such love from everyone. 

[CanaryFan98]

 

[DisneyBoy]

Wow.

Beautifully said by them both.

I'm crying in spite of this being day...three now? It's just awful.

 

So...that day was the end. When it aired, I noticed how each of John's relationships were honored that day and how strong his performance was, in spite of his appearance. But I never imagined that was his last day.

The thing is, I just read that Carson stated he'd filmed scenes with Drake that would air in December...

...I'm more inclined to believe Corday would tell Access Hollywood the fact though, so....maybe that was his last day.

[CanaryFan98]

Not a good week for the Alamain brothers 

 

 

[SouthernChick]

 

[chediavolo]

1 hour ago, SouthernChick said:

 

 I read the whole statement online. I was expecting something more . This one did not move me at all. I can’t really put my finger on it.

[DaphneCat]

1 hour ago, chediavolo said:

 I read the whole statement online. I was expecting something more . This one did not move me at all. I can’t really put my finger on it.

She basically said she liked his character and he was always professional.    Kind of how you might describe that guy in accounting (that you don't really know) who is retiring.

[SouthernChick]

Christie Clark basically said that she spoke to Deidre and she was grieving hard. I’m surprised she was able to release a statement at all. 

[DisneyBoy]

I guess people are more comfortable hearing something emotional like "I'm devastated! I adored him!" But maybe they were pleasant coworkers and nothing more. Who knows.

[CanaryFan98]

11 minutes ago, DisneyBoy said:

I guess people are more comfortable hearing something emotional like "I'm devastated! I adored him!" But maybe they were pleasant coworkers and nothing more. Who knows.

I personally believe that was the nature of their relationship tbh. That's ok just because you work with someone doesn't mean you were super close either.

I remember reading in Eric Braeden(Victor Newman)'s memoir and he mentioned how it worked so well between him and Melody Thomas Scott(Nikki) was because they didn't talk about their personal lives with each other. Maybe it's the same here?

[brisbydog]

I found Stephen Nichols' tribute by far the most beautiful. I don't know what I expected from Dee but I thought it would be more moving.

I had a friend at a fan event this past weekend. She said that the actors were told about Drake when they got off the plane and Eric M was a mess both days. Paul was looking after him. He's taking it really hard. I'm glad John's last scenes were with Brady. He was the ultimate dad from day one.

Edited October 3 by brisbydog

[boes]

Also, maybe DH is just more guarded with her emotions than others, less willing to put it all out there for public consumption.  Some people are like that.  I know that I generally keep a stone face at funerals and do my grieving privately.  

We all have our own ways.

[Irlandesa]

That statement sounds like the statement from a show's leader about how 'the show must go on.' She probably let her PR team take care of it because it was released to the press as opposed to a social media statement.

I never understood the demands for public grief, so I'm fine with how she chose to pay tribute.

12 hours ago, CanaryFan98 said:

Not a good week for the Alamain brothers 

So sad.  I love Michael Sabatino and adored Lawrence and Carly.

17 minutes ago, boes said:

I know that I generally keep a stone face at funerals

The more people cry, the more I want to laugh.  I'm a menace at funerals. 

[DaphneCat]

37 minutes ago, Irlandesa said:

I never understood the demands for public grief, so I'm fine with how she chose to pay tribute.

I don't necessarily think she has to display public grief but maybe tell a personal story, something along the lines of a particular incident that cracked everyone up on set.  Just a story of even a vaguely personal interaction.

[DisneyBoy]

Maybe that will come in time.

There's also her job kind of on the line here too, in a weird way. Actors always say you're nothing on a soap without a pairing. Suddenly Deidre is without a pairing after being the Face of the show for decades. Where does this leave "Marlena"? Who knows how comfortable or confident she is in her employers regarding any of that. Were she and Drake discussing leaving as a team someday? Does she intend to stay no matter what and this is a horrible curveball?

Different situation obviously, but Greg recently expressed frustration over losing his job because Ari left/was fired. And KA clearly was left in a bad spot once Peter R walked. Once you're in a super couple, it's not easy being a standalone again.

All this to say, there's probably a lot going through DH's mind right now.

[SouthernChick]

Unlike Kristian, Deidre had 3 successful pairings. I think it will be easier to see her as a standalone character than Hope. 

[Irlandesa]

Deidre is to DOOL what Susan Lucci was to AMC.  A good portion of the people who watch the show watch for her.

And Kristian still got stories after Peter left.  She didn't like them and ultimately walked away.

[Sunrain]

TBH, the businesslike tone of Dee's statement didn't shock me that much. Genie Francis's tribute to Drake's passing was also distant though they shared a close bond back then. GF had suffered long-time RL depression since GH and DH made her felt comfortable to finally open up about it. He had accompanied her to counselling sessions and she got to know his wife and children. The nature of their friendship was completely omitted from Genie's tribute to Drake. In Genie’s case, the detached tones possibly reflected her desire to bury the unpleasant past (not directed towards Drake personally). In Deidre’s case, maybe Drake and her weren’t that close after all or she was more of a private person when it comes to grieving.

32 minutes ago, SouthernChick said:

Unlike Kristian, Deidre had 3 successful pairings. I think it will be easier to see her as a standalone character than Hope. 

You didn’t take into account that Dee began her Days debut 7 years earlier than Kristan (1976 and 83). By 1984-85, Roman and Don Craig left the show and Jarlena was her only pairing afterwards. So they aren’t that different in this regard. Both Marlena and Hope were stronger and more independent in the 80s if you watched the show.

Edited October 3 by Sunrain

[DisneyBoy]

I doubt Marlena will be paired with Roman again now, much less another man. Most of her storylines (at least under Ron) were her hypnotizing patients or palling around with pet characters like Leo, Alex and Paulina. Doc's kids - Belle, Sami, Carrie and Eric - are no longer in Salem. Her family is Brady, Tate, Holly and Johnny, all of whom are more involved with other characters.

Sure, she has lots of friends....but most of her scenes and stories were with John. That's over now.

I hope they are able to still give her good material somehow moving forward.

[SouthernChick]

I wonder if they will bring back Belle so Marlena has a child in town. It would be fitting.

[Soapy Goddess]

3 hours ago, DisneyBoy said:

Suddenly Deidre is without a pairing after being the Face of the show for decades. Where does this leave "Marlena"? Who knows how comfortable or confident she is in her employers regarding any of that. Were she and Drake discussing leaving as a team someday? Does she intend to stay no matter what and this is a horrible curveball?

If they don't kill off John, Marlena could easily ride off into the sunset with him.

And if Deidra wants to stay, she could come back as Marlena's twin.

[oceanblue]

 I remember reading decades ago that at the height of the Aids crisis, everyone in Hollywood was wearing red bows as a show of solidarity.  Deirdre Hall refused to wear on at an event and faced a lot of flack for it.  She'd spent the day with a friend who was dying of Aids and thought wearing a bow was stupid.   She doesn't seem like one for public displays.   But maybe she's showing up for the family in person.   

[JBC344]

I wouldn't be surprised in a year or two if they either brought back Don Craig (new actor of course) or brought a new distinguished actor to Days for a pairing with Deidre. 

A mature love story could be interesting.  

We also still don't know what that Alison Sweeney storyline is, it could be John's death. TPTB may have known he was terminal and not filming anymore.  So we may see it in March or April, instead of the summer. 

[SouthernChick]