Jason David Frank, the actor best known for portraying the Green and White Rangers on the original Mighty Morphin Power Rangers series, has died at the age of 49.
A cause of death has not been officially released, though TMZ reports sources with “direct knowledge” claim Frank died by suicide.
“Unfortunately, it is true,” a representative for Frank told PEOPLE. “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,” the rep added. “He will be truly missed.”
After starring as Tommy Oliver in Power Rangers’ original run, which lasted three seasons from 1993 to 1995, Frank went on to appear in Power Rangers Zeo, Power Rangers Turbo, Power Rangers Wild Force, Power Rangers Dino Thunder, Power Rangers Super Megaforce, Power Rangers Hyperforce, and Power Rangers Super Ninja Steel, plus the 1995 and 1997 Power Rangers movies.
Walter Emmanuel Jones, the original Black Power Ranger who starred alongside Frank on the 1990s Fox Kids series, took to social media on Sunday to express his sadness.
“Can’t believe it … RIP Jason David Frank. My heart is sad to have lost another member of our special family,” Jones captioned a photo of himself and Frank on the red carpet.
Frank’s talent agent Brian Butler-Au also shared a tribute on Instagram.
“Very sad to hear about my friend and client Jason David Frank’s passing,” Butler-Au 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 is survived by his four children.
