Jason David Frank, the legendary actor behind the original Green and White Power Rangers, has passed away

What at first began as some sort of rumor has been officially confirmed: Jason David Frank, the actor behind Tommy Oliver in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers (the mythical green/white Power Ranger) has passed away at the age of 49 years old. This has been confirmed by his agent and several of his former co-stars.

“Very sad to hear about my friend and client Jason David Frank’s passing,” wrote Brian Butler-Au, CEO of SukerPunch Entertainment and Frank’s agent, on an instagram post. ”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.” Sadly, current reports seem to point at the cause of death to have been self inflicted, and pointing at depression as the main cause.

The pink and black rangers say goodbye to Jason David Frank

Several of his former cast companions have joined Butler-Au in remembering the actor and martial artist.”Jase, you were beautiful and truly unique,”wrote Amy Jo Johnson, the original pink Ranger. “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…”

Walter Jones, who played Zack in MMPR, wrote a similar message:” 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. 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."

Blake Foster, a ranger from the later seasons, also revealed his shock after learning the news. “Can’t believe this… Cried all night. Heartbroken yet again. Lost my hero, our leader, my friend and an icon. Life really sucks man”.

Jason David Frank was born in 1973, and worked as part of the main cast in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers from 1993 to 1996. However, his character transcended the series and appeared in several of the following seasons of the show like Wild Force, Turbo, Zeo, Dino Thunder, and plenty more.

Source | TMZ, Instagram