Jason David Frank is no longer with us.
Rest In Peace, JDF
On Sunday, it was confirmed that the ‘Power Rangers’ actor and former MMA fighter had died at the age of 49. Frank’s manager, Brian Butler, would break the news of his passing. According to a report from TMZ, Frank committed suicide.
“Very sad to hear about my friend and client Jason David Frank’s passing,” Butler wrote. “Jason was a martial artist best known for playing Tommy in the Power Rangers. He was a true martial artist and I had the pleasure of managing him for the fights he competed in. If anyone you know may be depressed please check on them.”
Frank was best known for playing the role of Tommy Oliver in hit TV show, ‘Mighty Morphin Power Rangers’ (1993-1996). He started off with the mantle of The Green Ranger before turning into The White Ranger later in the series. JDF starred in a total of 123 episodes of Power Rangers.
Frank’s MMA Stint
Along with acting, Frank also had a year-long MMA career, where he went undefeated in his run.
In 2010, Frank had a total of five fights. The ‘Power Rangers’ star would show just how powerful he was off-screen, finishing all four of his opponents on the amateur scene. He picked up two submissions and two knockouts before turning pro later that year.
Frank would win his professional debut in just 46 seconds, where he submitted Jose Roberto Vasquez with a rear-naked choke in Aug. 2010. This would be his first and final pro fight.
In addition to Frank’s perfect MMA record, the actor had quite the background in martial arts. He had an eighth-degree black belt in karate and experience in Muay Thai, taekwondo & Brazilian jiu-jitsu.
Our condolences go out to JDF’s family and friends.
