Jason David Frank (born September 4, 1973) is an American actor and martial artist, perhaps best known for playing Tommy Oliver in Power Rangers (1993-1997, and 2004 with 242 total episode appearances).
Frank appeared in the most Power Rangers episodes: 257 character appearances and 242 actual appearances. He also appeared in the most seasons: seven total (Mighty Morphin , Zeo, Turbo, Wild Force and Dino Thunder). Frank came back to Power Rangers in the special 10th anniversary episode titled "Forever Red" in Power Rangers Wild Force (2002, reuniting with Austin St. John). Frank has also worn the most different colors of the Power Rangers suits (green, white, red and black).
Frank was supposed to be the lead character Ryan Steele in VR Troopers (originally called "Cybertron") and shot a pilot episode before being called back to Power Rangers. It has been rumored that Brad Hawkins was to replace him originally as the White Ranger on Power Rangers. However, Hawkins appears in a VR Troopers teaser promo for the MMPR Fan Club video which features Frank as Tommy the returning Green Ranger. Frank was already re-committed to MMPR while Hawkins was committed to VR Troopers. The White Ranger character was likely considered while Hawkins was already working on VR Troopers.
With his knowledge of many different styles of martial arts, Frank collected the most practical applications, modified them with his own philosophies and created his own blend of American Karate, "Toso Kune Do". Most recently, on June 28, 2003, he was inducted into the World Karate Union Hall of Fame. Jason David Frank appeared at the Arnold Classic on February 29th 2008 in Columbus, Ohio. Frank has showed interest in Mixed Martial Arts. Frank was scheduled to fight against Ron 'The Badger' McMasters on June 23, 2007 at the Williamson County Pavilion in Marion. The fight never took place, however, as the rules were changed to an exhibition boxing match. Frank opted out due to his belief that the fight would be commissioned under MMA rules instead of strictly fists.
He did not attend Mighty Morphin Power Rangers co-star Thuy Trang's funeral because his older brother, Erik Frank died around the same time at 29 of illness. He appeared as Tommy's brother in Power Rangers Zeo as David Trueheart. He is the father of three children.
