Power Rangers actor Jason David Frank has died at the age of 49 according to multiple news sources and confirmed by his rep Justine Hunt. Sources reported that the his death was the result of suicide.
Jason David Frank or JDF, as avid Power Rangers fans called the iconic ranger, is best known for playing Tommy Oliver from the original run of the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers in the early 90s. The franchise dates back to 1993 when he was introduced as one of the six masked rangers with martial arts skills.
JDF’s Tommy Oliver started out as the Green Ranger in the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Season 1. He was introduced as an enemy of the original five rangers and then eventually would turn to the good side.
At one point in the season, his powers would start to deteriorate, however, he would be given new power and turned into the White Ranger controlling the White Tiger Zord. Tommy would become the new leader of the Power Rangers. Frank starred as one of the leads for three season totaling 123 episodes.
JDF would continue to play Tommy Oliver in several more Power Rangers shows including Wild Force, Turbo, Zeo, Dino Thunder, Megaforce, Ninja Steel, Hyperforce and more. He had played a Red Ranger, Black Ranger and a new Green Ranger. Being a fan favorite landed him multiple opportunities to reprise his role as Tommy. He even had a cameo at the end of 2017’s Power Rangers remake film.
Not only did Frank display his fighting abilities onscreen, he was also professionally training as a MMA fighter. JDF is disciplined in Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Judo, and Jiu-Jitsu. He competed professionally between 2008 to 2010.
Walter Jones, who played Zack in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers tv series, told TMZ, “He was an inspiration to so many people. His presence will be dearly missed. It’s so sad to lose another member of our Ranger family.”
Jones added, “Jason was one of the biggest pranksters on the show. He had a wild sense of humor. We had our shares of ups and downs but I stayed consistent about being an ear if he needed one. My prayers go out to his family and all that will miss him.”
Jason David Frank has four children. Check back here to see developing news.
