Jason David Frank is, simply put, a force of positive energy. He didn't just play a superhero on TV, he's truly heroic in real life, too. And his fans LOVE him as much as he loves them. When he comes to Comic Con, he's not just passively waiting for fans to approach him in his booth. Jason David Frank holds exhibitions, where he teaches basic moves to anyone who wants to learn more about Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). He helps judge costume contests or cosplay competitions. He also engages fans through efforts like T-shirt giveaways and talking to each and every fan as if they are the only person in the room. Now that's what I call charisma! He even gave away a piece of one of his World Record pine boards (also called a makiwara), loaded with autographs, to participants during his Q&A. In case you didn't know, "Fearless" Frank broke the World Record while free-falling over his home-state of California, breaking a total of seven pine boards, smashing the previous record of five!
I found Jason David Frank completely and utterly charming as fans asked questions and he answered with open candor, always saying how humbled and grateful he was to have been a part of their lives. Frank spoke well about his early life, growing up without much money, and how karate, from the age of four forward, changed his life for the better. Now a husband and father, Frank exudes the kind of positivity rarely seen from other Hollywood rolemodels. His continued theme throughout his Q&A was to not just pretend to be a superhero, but to live life heroically. And that is something Frank does exceptionally well.
Jason David Frank founded and owns Rising Sun Karate Academy, located in Stevenson Ranch, California. Kyoshi Frank, as he is called in his Dojo, encourages students to use what they learn to help themselves and others. The 7th degree black belt and MMA champion teaches the Toso Kune Do system or "Way of the Fighting Fists," that, despite its name, is part of a continuing quest for personal excellence for any student who undertakes it.
Jason David Frank is the real deal. He's a true Mixed Martial Arts Champion, earning titles and awards since 1994 for his efforts. His school is also an award winner. And the reason why is clear: Jason David Frank doesn't just talk the talk, he walks the walk. Every mile of it.
The young man who many knew as Tommy Oliver, the Green Ranger and White Ranger from Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, is as earnest and good today as his television character of yesterday. Still acting amidst training for MMA competitions and teaching at his school, Jason David Frank's most recent role was in the 2011 film, The One Warrior.
I'd liken Jason to a 21st century Bruce Lee, but perhaps even better. After his Q&A ended, he swept me up in a legitimate hug that I happily returned. It was a true pleasure to work with such an exceptional human being. And I look forward to working with Jason David Frank again during his 2013-2014 Wizard World tour.
To learn more about Jason's school, please check the website: http://www.risingsunkaratewest.com/dojoFounder.html
Follow Jason David Frank on Twitter: www.twitter.com/@JDFMMA
His official Facebook page says it all: "If it wasn't for you (the fans), I wouldn't be here." Even nicer, Frank manages his own Facebook account: https://www.facebook.com/#!/jasondfrank?fref=ts
For more on Frank's filmography, check his IMDB page: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0290969/
Thank you, Jason! Looking forward to working with you again soon!!! And yes, JASON DAVID FRANK is most certainly #PopCultureProfessor APPROVED!!!!
If you want to know when Jason will be in a city near you, check Wizard World's website for upcoming appearances all across the country! www.WizardWorld.com