John Black is undoubtedly one of the most iconic characters in “Days of Our Lives” history. The character, portrayed by beloved late actor Drake Hogestyn, is one that fans will remember and talk about for decades to come. John’s life in Salem was full of highs and lows, and his story is among one of the most interesting character plots in the soap opera’s long and storied history. Sadly, John’s story has come to an end after Hogestyn died in 2024. However, his legacy will continue to live on. Here’s what you need to know about the incomparable character of John Black.
John Came To Salem As The Pawn in 1986
When “Days of Our Lives” fans first met John Black, he had no name and no memories. His face was hidden behind bandages after an accident, and it was later revealed that he was being brainwashed and controlled by Salem’s biggest villain, Stefano DiMera (Joseph Mascolo), per Soap Central. When he began receiving medical treatment, he met Dr. Marlena Evans (Deidre Hall). The two struck up a connection, and she began to believe that he was her long-lost and presumed dead husband, Roman Brady (Wayne Northop, Josh Taylor). Marlena fell in love with John as Roman. However, when the real Roman finally returned, chaos ensued.
John and Marlena’s Epic Romance Was One For The Books
Despite the news that John was not Roman Brady, he and Marlena Evans couldn’t deny their feelings for each other. John adopted his new name and stayed in Salem. Marlena tried to rekindle her relationship with Roman, but it was John that had her heart. Eventually, the pair engaged in a torrid affair that caused mayhem within Marlena’s family and forever altered her relationship with her daughter, Sami Brady (Alison Sweeney).
John’s Other Notable Love Interests Were Isabella and Kristen
Despite his iconic love story with Marlena, John had other romantic interests as well. His romance with Isabella Toscano was one of the most heartbreaking storylines on the soap. “Days of Our Lives” fans watched as John and Isabella fell in love and happily welcomed a son, Brady Black (via Soaps in Depth). Sadly, just months after giving birth, Isabella was diagnosed with cancer and she died tragically in John’s arms.
After Isabella’s death, John also fell for Stefano DiMera’s adopted daughter, Kristen DiMera (Eileen Davidson/Stacy Haiduk). However, Kristen’s obsession with John caused her to lie about being pregnant, manipulate her lookalike Susan Banks to give her her son, and then lock Marlena away in the secret room at the DiMera mansion. Eventually, her schemes were found out and John and Marlena reunited. In a twist of events, Kristen went on to have a relationship and a daughter with John’s son, Brady, several years later.
John’s Identity Crisis Was The Backbone Of His Storyline
John Black was a name that he chose. However, when it came to knowing and understanding his past, “Days of Our Lives” fans watched for decades as he tried to figure out the puzzle of his life before coming to Salem. There were thoughts that he was a man named Forrest Alamain. Later, he was said to have been related to Stefano DiMera’s family. Finally, before Drake Hogestyn’s death, he was revealed to be the son of Timothy Robicheaux (Dick Van Dyke).
Understanding John’s Salem Family
Despite going his adult life without knowing where he came from or who he was, John built a loving family. In addition to son Brady, he and Marlena also welcomed a daughter together, Belle, named after his late wife. John was also revealed to be the father of Paul Narita. In addition, he was a loving stepfather to Marlena’s other children, Sami Brady, Eric Brady (Greg Vaughan), and even her former stepdaughter Carrie Brady. Along the way, his friends also became his family. Characters such as Steve Johnson (Stephen Nichols), Abe Carver (James Reynolds), and others were by his side during difficult times.
John Black’s Biggest Days Of Our Lives Storylines
John Black has been a pillar for Days of Our Lives fans. The character, as well as Drake Hogestyn, has been involved in several iconic storylines. In addition to his stint as fake Roman Brady, his love life woes, battles against Stefano DiMera, and relationship with Marlena Evans, he’s been front and center for other jaw-dropping tales as well. John was in the thick of Marlena’s possession storyline. He was also there when she was discovered to be the Salem Stalker. Through it all, he remained a hero to viewers, who will never forget the legacy he leaves behind.
