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Condolences poured in from across the world at the news of actor Jason David Frank’s passing.
The actor rose to fame as Tommy Oliver in the hit-show “Mighty Morphing Power Rangers,” where he portrayed the Green/White ranger.
Frank, who was known for his mixed martial arts (MMA) skill outside of the show, reportedly took his own life in a hotel room after getting into an argument with his wife, Tammie. They were reportedly going through a divorce when Frank’s body was found the following morning.
A representative for Frank confirmed his passing the next day.
“Unfortunately, it is true,” the rep stated. “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.”
His co-stars from the original Power Ranger series shared how impactful he had been to them as well.
In an interview with CBN News, Frank shared about his faith, incorporating Jesus into his acting roles and how tragedy is what initially led him to Jesus.
“I never wanted to become the leader. I did not take anyone’s spot. I just created space for Tommy to be in that position,” he said. “And God definitely had His hand in His plan to say, ‘I am going to lead you through a challenging life and kick downs and losses.'”
When Frank’s brother passed away, he did not have an outlet for his pain, and was invited to attend church by his wife.
“I didn’t really understand what the whole church thing was about,” Frank said. “When I lost my brother, it was like people were telling me I need God and all that stuff, and I was like, ‘If one more person tells me that, then that is what it is.'”
Besides acting, Frank had a deep passion for MMA, and included his faith in Jesus in it.
Frank was co-founder of “Jesus Didn’t Tap,” a Christian MMA apparel company, which he discussed in the interview.
“We came up with Jesus Didn’t Tap. That means He didn’t quit, He didn’t give up – tap out,” Frank said.
“He could have tapped, snapped anytime. He could have just called thousands and thousands of angels if He wanted to,” he continued. “Tap out is an expression I can give mentally and physically, I give up, I give up. He never did that.”
Though his life came to a tragic end, Frank used his influence and following to promote and bring people to know Jesus.
“I reach 5 million people in a week through Facebook and Instagram, and I am just blessed to do that,” he said.
Frank is survived by his sons, Hunter and Jacob, and daughters, Skye and Jenna. {eoa}
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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
