Eric Frank was an American actor who played David Trueheart, the older brother of Tommy Oliver, on Power Rangers: Zeo. He was also the real-life brother of Jason David Frank, who portrayed Tommy Oliver in several Power Rangers series. Eric Frank died on April 16, 2001 at the age of 29 after an unspecified illness. His death was one of the many tragedies that have plagued the Power Rangers franchise over the years. In this article, we will explore the life and career of Eric Frank, as well as the circumstances surrounding his death.
Early Life and Family
Eric Ray Frank was born on October 14, 1971 in Covina, California. He was the eldest of three children of Ray and Janice Frank. His younger brother Jason David Frank was born on September 4, 1973, and his sister Tammie Frank was born on June 2, 1976. Eric and Jason shared a close bond and a passion for martial arts. They both trained in karate and competed in tournaments. Eric also enjoyed playing guitar and singing.
Power Rangers: Zeo
In 1996, Eric Frank was cast as David Trueheart, the long-lost brother of Tommy Oliver, on Power Rangers: Zeo. The character was introduced in the episode “Inner Spirit”, where he was revealed to be a Native American who was raised by a tribe called the Peacemakers. He had a special connection to nature and animals, especially a white falcon named Talon. He also had a tattoo of a falcon on his chest, which matched Tommy’s Zeo crystal.
David Trueheart was kidnapped by King Mondo, the leader of the Machine Empire, who wanted to use his falcon tattoo to access the Zeo crystal. Tommy rescued his brother and reunited with him after years of separation. David then joined Tommy and his friends at Angel Grove High School and became a recurring character on the show. He also helped the Power Rangers in their battles against the Machine Empire.
Eric Frank appeared in six episodes of Power Rangers: Zeo as David Trueheart. He had a good chemistry with his brother Jason David Frank on screen and off screen. He also received positive feedback from the fans and the producers of the show.
Death and Legacy
Eric Frank’s last appearance on Power Rangers: Zeo was in the episode “A Season to Remember”, which aired on November 27, 1996. He did not return for any subsequent Power Rangers series or movies. According to FandomWir, Eric Frank died on April 16, 2001 at the age of 29 after an unspecified illness. His death was not widely reported by the media or confirmed by his family. Some sources claim that he died of a heart illness, while others say that he died of cancer. The exact cause of his death remains unknown.
Eric Frank’s death was one of the many tragedies that have affected the Power Rangers franchise over the years. Several actors and crew members who were involved with the show have died prematurely or faced legal troubles. Some fans believe that there is a curse that haunts the Power Rangers cast and crew.
Eric Frank is remembered by his fans as a talented and charismatic actor who brought life to David Trueheart. He is also remembered by his family and friends as a loving and caring brother, son, and friend. His brother Jason David Frank has paid tribute to him on several occasions, such as posting photos and videos of him on social media and wearing a necklace with his name on it.
Eric Frank’s death was a tragic loss for the Power Rangers community and for everyone who knew him. He will always be missed and never forgotten.
