Original Green Ranger and longtime Power Ranger actor Jason David Frank passed away on Saturday at age 49.
Frank rose to fame portraying Green Ranger Tommy Oliver in 1993’s Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers’ (MMPR). The character was originally intended to be short-lived though Frank quickly became a fan favorite and was written back into the show as the White Ranger.
Frank continued his portrayal of Oliver throughout his career, assuming the role of the Red Ranger in 1996′ Power Rangers Zeo, and 1997’s Power Rangers Turbo before leaving the franchise. During 2002’s Power Rangers Wild Force‘s reunion episode “Forever Red,” Frank returned along with fellow actors that donned the role of Red Ranger throughout the franchise’s history.
Frank returned as a series regular during 2004’s Power Rangers Dino Thunder as Oliver and assumed the position of the Black Ranger. Frank briefly returned for reunion episodes in 2014’s Power Rangers Super Megaforce and 2018’s Power Rangers Super Ninja Steel.
“Please respect the privacy of his family and friends during this horrible time as we come to terms with the loss of such a wonderful human being,” said a representative for Frank confirming his passing. “He loved his family, friends and fans very much. He will be truly missed.”
“Jase, you were beautiful and truly unique,” wrote Amy Jo Johnson who played the original Pink Ranger in MMPR. “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…”
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“We must not allow the clock and the calendar to blind us to the fact that each moment of life is a miracle and a mystery,” wrote David Yost who portrayed the original Blue Ranger quoting author H.G. Wells
“My complicated friend. You had my heart on day one. So intelligent, so funny, so energetic. A light so bright, a force like no other. You shaped & transformed so many lives. I know you can now see the truth of the glory that is you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. ♥️”
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“Jay you finally got me to shut up. Can you imagine me, of all people, at a loss for words,” wrote Karan Ashley who took over for original Yellow Ranger actress Thuy Trang after her departure from MMPR.
“All I can muster up is I love you. That just doesn’t seem to be a big enough phrase. I promise when I get my act together, I will have a long and mushy speech that’s all about you. You’ll love it! Until then, I love you, I’m so very sad and I’m anxiously awaiting the day we meet again.”
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“Can’t believe it…. RIP Jason David Frank🙏🏾,” said original Black Ranger Walter Jones. “My heart is sad to have lost another member of our special family.”
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In April 2001 Frank’s brother and fellow Power Rangers alum Erik Frank passed away. In September that year, Trang was involved in a car accident and succumbed to her injuries shortly after.
Frank is survived by four children — sons Hunter, Jacob, and daughters Skye and Jenna.
