The death of Power Rangers legend Jason David Frank was just as sudden as it was tragic, taking friends and fans by complete surprise when the news was broken. While little details have been revealed regarding the circumstances of his death, the actor and martial artist reportedly died by suicide at the age of 49. The loss is especially painful for those who knew Frank, including his students at his Rising Sun Karate schools.
Despite Frank’s death, there are no immediate plans to shut down the academy. TMZ reports that the school’s co-founder Sam Sprague, who serves as a senior instructor, will “carry on the torch” by staying in business. Students and staff alike are said to be devastated over the news, but the that they wish to honor Frank’s legacy by passing on his teachings, which include a fighting style that the Power Rangers star personally crafted. Rising Sun Karate members are planning to honor Frank company-wide at its three locations in California and Texas.
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“JDF was the most unique, driven, energetic, and creative person,” a tribute post for Frank shared by the academy stated. “His passion and talents for the martial arts made him a symbol and icon for multiple generations. His words reminded people to be strong and pursue their goals aggressively and with the utmost focus. This form of leadership will be missed but not forgotten.”
The tribute adds, “Jason David Frank has entered so many people’s hearts and will continue to live on in his family and the Rising Sun Karate studios, to continue the work started by ’living fearlessly.’ Hanshi Jason David Frank, your inspiring words will be missed on the mats of the Rising Sun Karate Academy, may you find the rest you so richly deserve.”
Jason David Frank Is Loved and Missed
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Others who’ve been honoring Frank include some of his co-stars from the Power Rangers world. David Yost, the original Blue Power Ranger, shared some images of himself with Frank on Instagram while sharing a message honoring his friend.
“My complicated friend,” Yost wrote. “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.”
Meanwhile, Austin St. John (Red Ranger), Amy Jo Johnson (Pink Ranger), and Walter Jones (Black Ranger) also honored Frank with separate social media posts; Thuy Trang, who played the original Yellow Ranger, died in an automobile accident in 2001 at the age of 27.
Rest in peace.
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