In the Spotlight|November 18, 2014 07:06 EST
'Power Rangers' Actor Jason David Frank Reveals How Christianity Influenced Role as Tommy After Facing Much Tragedy
Original 'Mighty Morphin Power Rangers' actor Jason David Frank revealed in a recent interview how his Christian faith helped him overcome multiple tragedies in his life including the death of his real-life brother and 'Power Rangers Zeo' co-star Erik Ray Frank in 2001.
Jason David Frank is best known for his iconic portrayal as Tommy Oliver aka the Green/ White Ranger in the popular science fiction series which began in 1993 and spawned multiple spinoffs where the actor currently makes frequent guest appearances since his debut in the 'Green with Evil' episode in Seadon of the innovative series.
"I never wanted to become the leader [of the Power Rangers]. I did not take anyone's spot. I just created space for Tommy to be in that position. 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,'" said Frank to CBN News in an interview at the Wizard World Comic Con in Richmond, Virginia.
"I didn't really understand what the whole church thing was about and then, 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.'"
Frank also talked about his Crosby Church's Pastor Keenan Smith using his 'Team Impact' athletes to draw people to Christ by putting on amazing performances for their audience they met on tour.
"I'm from Los Angeles, so this [Texas] church is like cowboy boots. Pastor Keenan is breaking things and I was instantly attracted to him," said Frank.
"We sparred. We wrestled. And he used that to attract people to church."
The 41-year-old Covina, California native also explained why he has a 'Jesus Didn't Tap' tattoo on his arm, which is the same name of the Christian-based Mixed Martial Arts company that he co-created.
"That means he didn't quit, he didn't give up - tap out. He could have tapped, snapped any time. He could have just called thousands and thousands of angels if he wanted to," said Frank in reference to Jesus' ultimate sacrifice on the cross due to the Son of God's never-ending love for his prized yet flawed creation: humanity.
"Tap out is an expression I can give mentally and physically, I give up, I give up. He never did that."