Actor Andrew Gray paid a moving tribute to the late but great Jason David Frank, the original Green Power Ranger, who passed away on November 19 tragically by suicide, at the age of 49.
His character, Tommy Oliver, was introduced as the Green Ranger in the inaugural season of “Mighty Morphin Power Rangers” where he became an instant favorite among the fans and viewers. From there, Tommy was subsequently given the powers of the White Power Ranger and the mantle of the team leader.
Jason David Frank guest starred in “Power Rangers Super Megaforce,” which afforded Gray the privileged opportunity to have scenes with the iconic Ranger. Andrew Gray played the role of Red Ranger Troy Burrows in “Power Rangers Megaforce.”
“He taught us all what it meant to be a Ranger,” Gray said. “I am at a loss for words by the passing of our friend Jason. Jason was always a kind man. He passed on his knowledge freely with excitement. He carried the torch for decades even when times were hard and many did not know what he or his family were going through.”
“Jason always said hi with a big bear hug,” Gray said. “Having the opportunity to meet him, learn from him, watch him in action, film together, travel alongside him, and above all call him a friend was the utmost privilege. Jason will be missed and mourned by millions. My heart goes out to his entire family. The last time Jason and I were together was at PMC 22 to which the first thing we did was pray together. There will never be another one like you JDF. You are truly a 1-for-1. May you rest in power, my friend! In this life and the next, once a Ranger always a Ranger. See you on the other side mate,” Gray elaborated in his heartfelt homage.
“Us Rangers and the Ranger Nation will keep your legacy alive,” Gray posted in a subsequent reel on Instagram.
In addition, the official Power Rangers social media accounts paid their respects to Jason David Frank. “Ranger Nation, we mourn together. Today, we celebrate the heart, strength, and raw talent that Jason David Frank brought to Power Rangers as Tommy Oliver. We’re inspired by all of the beautiful tributes to JDF that have been shared over the last few days. He was truly a legend among us and we will miss him. May the Power protect him, always,” they posted on social media.
