Power Rangers stars lead tributes as Jason David Frank dies aged 49: ‘I will always love you’-Louise Griffin-Entertainment – Metro

L to R: Power Rangers stars Jason David Frank, Johnny Yong Bosch, David Yost, Karan Ashley, Steve Cardenas and Amy Jo Johnson {Picture: MIKE NELSON/AFP via Getty Images)

Power Rangers stars have led tributes to their co-star Jason David Frank after his death at the age of 49.

Frank made his debut in the iconic Mighty Morphin Power Rangers franchise as Tommy Oliver, or the Green Power Ranger, in 1993.

His rep confirmed news of his death to TMZ on Sunday.

Walter E Jones, who played Zack Taylor, the Black Power Ranger, shared a sweet photo of the stars on the red carpet, writing: ‘Can’t believe it…. RIP Jason David Frank🙏🏾. My heart is sad to have lost another member of our special family.’

Amy Jo Johnson, who played Kimberly Hart, the Pink Power Ranger, shared a photo of herself and Frank, and wrote: ‘Jase, you were beautiful and truly unique.

‘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…’

Karan Ashley, who played Aisha Campbell, the second Yellow Power Ranger, shared a snap from a convention, penning: ‘Jay you finally got me to shut up. Can you imagine me, of all people, at a loss for words. LOL… I know it’s unheard of. Calm down and Wipe that mischievous smirk off your face. It won’t last long.

‘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.’

Steve Cardenas played Rocky DeSantos, the second Red Power Ranger.

He shared a montage of photos of himself and Frank, writing: ‘Words simply cannot describe the shock and sadness I’m feeling in this moment.

‘Jason David Frank is and forever will be an icon. He dedicated his life to the Power Rangers brand and most importantly his fans. Jason was the first person to welcome me on set in 1994 and later introduced me to social media, comic cons and event promoters all around the world so that I could reconnect with all of you as we did back then. I will be forever grateful.

‘Everywhere he went he gave his fans an experience that will last a life time. He elevated the Mighty Morphin franchise to a pop culture phenomenon. JDF was a good soul and my brother both on screen and off. The Ranger Nation lost a real hero. We’re all equally crushed by this devastating news. My heart goes out to Tammie, his family, our family and all of you. I shall forever be grateful to you , J. I hope you finally have the peace you longed for in the end. RIPJDF #legend.’

Frank died at the age of 49 (Picture: Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images for Saban Brands)

He was also accomplished in martial arts (Picture: Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images)

Paul Schrier, who played  Farkas Bulk Bulkmeier, simply wrote: ‘Rest In Peace, my friend. #jdf.’

A representative for the actor confirmed news of his death, saying in a statement: ‘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.’

After his debut as the Green Power Ranger, Frank was later turned into the White Power Ranger and the new leader of the group due to his popularity with fans and starred in 123 episodes as one of the leading cast.

He was brought back after the show transformed into Power Rangers Zeo, as the Red Zeo Ranger, and in a later iteration of the series, Power Rangers Turbo, his character became the first Red Turbo Ranger.

While he left in 1997, he reprised his role various times in the franchise, including in 2002 for the special 10th anniversary episode, and then again in 2004.

Frank was also accomplished in martial arts, and 2003, he was inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame.

He was trained in disciplines including Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Judo, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and fought professionally from 2008 to 2010.

Frank’s final on-screen credit is for the upcoming film Legend of the White Dragon.

The star was married twice, and is survived by his four children.

MORE : Power Rangers star Jason David Frank dies aged 49

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