Casey Moss Returns to Days of Our Lives and Reflects on the Loss of Drake Hogestyn

Loyal fans of Days of Our Lives were recently treated to a touching and insightful update as actor Casey Moss made a surprise return to the beloved soap opera. Moss, known for playing JJ Deveraux, reappeared for the wedding of Chad and Abigail, but his latest character came with a new twist. Off-screen, Casey opened up about significant changes behind the scenes and shared his heartfelt memories of the late Drake Hogestyn, creating a moving tribute that captured the essence of their friendship.

A New Role with Familiar Roots

During his return, Moss portrayed a fresh character named Cat Green, introduced as the niece of Constantine Milonis, a figure connected to the tangled family histories of Salem. This new connection brought renewed excitement to the show’s intricate storytelling, giving long-time viewers a glimpse of how family ties continue to shape the lives of its characters.

While fans were eager to see Moss back on-screen, his reflections on his personal experiences behind the scenes proved equally captivating. Moss, who had spent several years on Days, revealed how his return allowed him to witness a dramatic shift in the working environment — one that felt far healthier than in years past.

A Reckoning Behind the Scenes

In 2023, the production of Days of Our Lives was rocked by a major controversy that shook both the cast and the fanbase. Co-executive producer Albert Alarr was fired following a thorough internal investigation into allegations of sexual harassment and creating a toxic work environment. This decision came after former cast member Arianne Zucker filed a lawsuit against Alarr, accusing him of misconduct during his tenure.

For Casey Moss, the firing of Alarr represented a critical turning point. Reflecting on the situation, he described how the toxic environment under Alarr’s leadership had impacted his earlier years on the show. Returning to the set after the leadership change, however, was a refreshing experience for the actor.

A Positive Shift Under New Leadership

Following Alarr’s departure, Janet Ducker was promoted to co-executive producer, ushering in a new era for the production. Moss spoke candidly about the transformation he observed upon his return, describing the current atmosphere as “the healthiest set I’ve ever seen.”

Moss emphasized that the shift was not just in leadership but in the attitudes of everyone on set. “The people here want to be here and want to do their best work,” he explained, highlighting how the environment now fosters respect, collaboration, and integrity. This positive change offers renewed hope for the future of the series, which has been captivating audiences for over five decades.

Mourning the Loss of a Legend: Drake Hogestyn

While Moss was heartened by the improvements on set, he also reflected on a personal loss that had deeply affected the entire Days of Our Lives family. In September, the show lost one of its most cherished stars, Drake Hogestyn, who played John Black for nearly 40 years.

Hogestyn was more than just a talented actor — he was a mentor, a friend, and an icon within the industry. His passing left an indelible void, not only in the hearts of fans but also among the cast and crew who had grown close to him over the years. Moss, whose dressing room was located next to Hogestyn’s for much of his time on the show, shared how he had witnessed the legendary actor’s grace and humility firsthand.

“Drake was probably everything you could hope and aspire to be as a person in the entertainment industry,” Moss recalled. “He was never arrogant and always respectful.” Hogestyn’s ability to remain grounded despite his fame became a guiding light for many of his co-stars, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and professionalism.

A Defining Encounter with Drake

One of Moss’s most cherished memories with Hogestyn took place off-set after Moss had initially left the show. Struggling to make ends meet, Moss found himself working at a restaurant. One evening, Hogestyn unexpectedly walked in with his family. What followed was a moment that would stay with Moss forever.

Without hesitation, Hogestyn approached Moss and greeted him with a familiar gesture — a hand on the shoulder, followed by a warm hug, just as he had done countless times on set. For Moss, this simple yet profound act of kindness was a reminder of the deep connection they shared.

“It was more than just a greeting,” Moss reflected. “It was a reminder of the respect Drake had for everyone, regardless of where life had taken them.” This encounter encapsulated the spirit of Hogestyn’s character, both on and off-screen — a man who treated everyone with warmth and generosity, no matter their circumstances.

A New Chapter for Days of Our Lives

As the Days of Our Lives family continues to honor Drake Hogestyn’s memory, the show is also moving forward with newfound energy under its reformed leadership. Moss’s return offers a glimpse of what lies ahead for the long-running series, suggesting that even as faces come and go, the heart of the show remains intact.

With a renewed focus on integrity and respect behind the scenes, the cast and crew are more committed than ever to delivering the drama and emotional depth that fans have cherished for decades. Moss’s reflections not only highlight the personal transformations that have taken place but also serve as a testament to the resilience of the show’s community.

As fans continue to tune in, there is hope that characters like JJ Deveraux — and perhaps even new roles for Moss — will make their way back to the spotlight, keeping the magic of Days of Our Lives alive for years to come.