'Once a ranger, always a ranger': 'Power Rangers' co-stars mourn death of Jason David Frank
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
The untimely death of Jason David Frank, 49, has shocked his former co-stars as he was cherished by both his friends and coworkers. For many years, the martial artist had served as the face of the Power Rangers franchise, frequently appearing in the role of Tommy Oliver. First debuted in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers in 1993, he appears in practically every iteration of the program afterward and often crossed over into other franchises.
Amy Jo Johnson, who originated the role of Kimberly Hart in the Pink Power Rangers, posted a throwback photo of herself and the actor onstage at what appears to be a fan event on Instagram.
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What was Jason David Frank's net worth? 'Power Rangers' star dies by suicide at 49
"Jase, you were beautiful and truly unique," Johnson wrote in her post. "My life just won't be the same without your frenetic, hilarious, caring, driven and creative ball of energy. I will always love you, dear friend. Please Rest now In Peace..."
Following the announcement of his co-star's sudden death, Walter Jones, who played Zack Taylor, the Black Ranger, on Mighty Morphin' Powers Rangers, also paid tribute to Frank on Instagram. Jones posted a flashback photo of the two with fellow male cast mates Austin St. John (the Red Ranger) and David Yost (the Blue Ranger) from the 2017 film Power Rangers, which starred other actors in the lead roles. "Can't believe it…. RIP Jason David Frank," Jones wrote. "My heart is sad to have lost another member of our special family. #jasondavidfrank #jdf #walterejones #greenranger #whiteranger #mmpr #maythepowerprotectyou #tommy."
"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 told TMZ. "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."
St. John also posted an Instagram photo of himself with Frank at the premiere. "Once a ranger, always a ranger" thoughts and prayers..." he wrote. "#RIP #prayers."
MEAWW previously reported, on Sunday, November 20, Frank died by suicide. When news of his death surfaced on social media, his supporters were left perplexed. The actor gained notoriety in the popular series as the Green Ranger. Though the part was only meant to run for 14 episodes, he was warmly welcomed back as the White Ranger and the team's new commander.
On Facebook, Frank's trainer announced his unexpected death, and later, a production company he had previously worked with also verified it. Although Frank's family has not yet released a statement regarding his death, one of his agents verified the news, calling it "regrettably real." His friend and trainer, Mike Bronzoulis, shared a picture of the two on Facebook with the caption, "RIP my brother from another mother Jason David Frank I'm still in shock I'm feeling terrible he called left me a message and I took to long Jason was a good friend to me and I will miss him. Love n prayers for his wife Tammy and their kids, I prey that God gets yall through this difficult time."