UPDATE
10:07 AM PT — Walter Jones, who performed the black ranger in ‘MMPR,’ tells TMZ … “He was an inspiration to so many individuals. His presence will probably be dearly missed. It’s so unhappy to lose one other member of our Ranger household.”
UPDATE
He provides, “Jason was one of many largest pranksters on the present. He had a wild humorousness. We had our shares of ups and downs however I stayed constant about being an ear if he wanted one. My prayers exit to his household and all that may miss him.”
Jason David Frank — one of many authentic “Power Rangers” — has died … TMZ has discovered.
The actor and combined martial artist died in Texas, based on his rep Justine Hunt. Sources with direct data inform us his loss of life was the results of suicide.
JDF is finest often called Tommy Oliver from the unique run of the “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” franchise, relationship again to the children collection’ debut in 1993 … when he was launched as one in every of six crime/monster-fighting superheroes, masked head to toe with kung-fu expertise.
Fans will keep in mind … he began out because the Green Ranger in Season 1, launched at first as an enemy of the Power Rangers — solely to do a 180 and grow to be good. After his powers begin to deteriorate, nonetheless, he is become the White Ranger … and tapped as the brand new chief of the group. Frank starred as one of many leads for 3 seasons, totaling 123 episodes.
Frank went on to reprise his position as Tommy in a number of adaptions of ‘Power Rangers’ — together with ‘Wild Force,’ ‘Turbo,’ ‘Zeo,’ ‘Dino Thunder,’ ‘Megaforce,’ ‘Ninja Steel,’ ‘HyperForce,’ and extra. He’s been a Red Ranger, a Black Ranger and a Green Ranger anew. JDF is a fan favourite Power Ranger … which is why he is returned to the franchise again and again.
His onscreen preventing skills translated into the actual world … Frank was a professionally skilled MMA brawler, who was well-versed in every part from Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Judo, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and others. He fought professionally for a time from 2008 to 2010.
He’s survived by his 4 kids.
Jason’s rep Justine tells TMZ … “Please respect the privateness of his household and buddies throughout this horrible time as we come to phrases with the lack of such an exquisite human being. He beloved his household, buddies and followers very a lot. He will actually be missed.”
Frank was 49.
RIP
If you or somebody is pondering of suicide, please name the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.
Originally Published — 8:57 AM PT