Jason David Frank, the Green Ranger and later the White Ranger in The Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, died on 19th November 2022. Frank was initially supposed to appear in 10 episodes of the original show; he became so popular with fans that his character appeared in more episodes than any other Power Ranger.
“Unfortunately, it is true,” Justin Hunt, Frank’s manager, told the press. “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 be truly missed.”
It’s unclear why Frank committed suicide, as there were no signs of personal struggles
It’s unclear why Jason Frank committed suicide as he’d shown no signs of distress. Age hadn’t lowered his enthusiasm for acting: he was set to star in the upcoming film Legend of the White Dragon. In May 2022, he celebrated the graduation of Jenna Frank, his only daughter with Tammie Frank.
Some people speculate that marital struggles might have pushed Frank over the edge. Tammie filed for divorce on 7th August 2022 in a Texas Court, RadarOnline reports. The filing claimed the pair separated on or around 1st July 2022.
She claimed that a ‘conflict of personalities’ had impacted the 19-year-old marriage. Furthermore, she accused Frank of cruelty and adultery. Tammie asked the court to award her a larger share of the couple’s property, as Frank had caused the breakup.
In a response filed a month later, Jason asked the court to enforce the couple’s premarital agreement. Frank claimed Tammie’s cruelty had made living under the same roof impossible. Jason asked for the exclusive use of the couple’s home and the vehicles in his possession.
It’s unclear whether the couple withdrew their pleadings, but Tammie wrote that the pair had decided to save their marriage. She wrote following his passing:
“I can’t go on without you [Jason]! You are my world! Yes we had our struggles like any marriage. But months ago we both agreed it was worth saving. Deep conversations, vulnerability, forgiveness on both our parts. I am deeply lost, hurt and utterly destroyed. I lost my one and only true love.”
On the outside, Frank was prospering both personally and professionally. However, the suicide suggests that things were a lot more complicated. Power Rangers alum Amy Jo Johnson tearfully said via Instagram video on 21st November 2022:
“Anybody who is out there who is feeling depressed and like there’s no hope, just know that that’s not the way and there is help and you do have a community here. Just reach out. Reach out for help if you are feeling like that.”
The Power Rangers community sent condolences to Frank’s friends and family
Jason David Frank left behind three children – Hunter, Jacob, and Skye – from his previous marriage to Shawna, and one child, Jenna, from his marriage to Tammie.
Condolences and tributes poured in from the Power Rangers community. Origins Blue Ranger David Yost wrote on Instagram:
“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.”
Karan Ashley, the second Yellow Ranger, said Frank’s death had left her speechless. She promised to pen a detailed tribute later on:
“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.”
Amy Jo Johnson posted a tribute on Instagram and followed it up with a video detailing the tragedy of Frank’s passing. “It fucking sucks,” Johnson said. “Sorry for the swearing, but it really fucking sucks. I know how much you all meant to Jason, and it sucks.”
Fans also sent their condolences via social media. @BigMacGuruMan1 wrote: “He has left behind a legacy and four kids who are probably devastated right now because your dad is gone. I couldn’t imagine what they’re feeling right now. Rest in peace Jason David Frank and long live the original green ranger.”