Jason David Frank, the actor who rose to fame as Tommy Oliver in the Power Rangers franchise, has died at the age of 49. While many fans were hoping for this to be an internet rumor, Frank’s rep Justine Hunt has confirmed his death to TMZ. Sources are saying that Frank’s death was by suicide. Frank’s friend and trainer, Mike Bronzoulis, wrote on Facebook, “RIP my brother from another mother, Jason David Frank.” Frank’s acting and skills in mixed martial arts translated well into his portrayal of Tommy Oliver, making the character a Power Rangers icon. Frank portrayed Tommy repeatedly in the franchise from 1993 to 2018.
Jason Michael Frank: The Iconic Tommy From ‘Power Rangers’
Jason Michael Frank began portraying Tommy Olver (the Green Ranger) on Mighty Morphin Power Rangers in 1993, a role that Meaww says was only supposed to last for 14 episodes. However, the character was so popular that he was brought back as the White Ranger and the team’s new commander. He portrayed the character in several different interactions of Power Rangers, including Turbo, Zeo, Dino Thunder, Ninja Steel, and more. Frank and his Mighty Morphon Power Rangers co-star Amy Jo Johnson (Kimberly Hart/Pink Ranger) cameoed as Angel Grove citizens in the 2017 movie. Frank announced his retirement from the franchise earlier this year.
Frank was professionally trained in various forms of MMA, and he fought professionally from 2008 to 2010.
Frank is survived by his four children. Hunt said to TMZ, “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. He loved his family, friends, and fans very much. He will truly be missed.”
Jason David Frank’s death occurs just over a week after that of another 1990s icon, Kevin Conroy, the voice of Batman.
Jason David Frank’s portrayal of Tommy Oliver from Power Rangers has made the character a legacy. For many who grew up with the franchise, the very mention of Power Rangers is synonymous with Tommy. The Nerd Stash sends condolences to Jason David Frank’s loved ones.
If you or someone you know is thinking of suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988.