Among the vast landscape of media and cinema, the Power Rangers franchise is a rare exception for being one of the most liked and revered media franchises of all time. Spanning over 29 seasons with numerous narratives, it has cast a plethora of actors as Power Rangers as well as in other roles.
While many of our favorite Rangers have unfortunately turned out to be one-hit-wonders, failing to make it big in the huge film industry, a handful of these actors present an exception. These rare gems or Power Rangers have managed to create their own identity outside the franchise and are now hailed as revered actors.
So, without further delay, here are 6 actors who survived the franchise curse and made it far in the film industry, leaving their Ranger identities behind.
6. Amy Jo Johnson: Mighty Morphin- Power Rangers
Ever since the start, actress Amy Jo Johnson has been the star of the Power Rangers franchise. Starring as the Pink Ranger in Mighty Morphin- Power Rangers, the actress portrayed the kind and cunning Kimberley Hart known for teaching dance and gymnastics on the side.
The original Pink Ranger has since become an established actress in the industry, starring in projects like The Division, and Flashpoint. The Canadian actress has also helmed the director’s hat with projects like The Space Between and an episode for Superman & Lois. If this wasn’t all, Johnson is also an amazing singer with three albums.
5. Adelaide Kane: Power Rangers R.P.M.
As silly as the Power Rangers franchise might seem to the audience, Power Rangers R.P.M. is one of those rare gems that stand out. Not only did the show do an exceptional job but it also gifted the industry with actors like Adelaide Kane. Known for starring as Tenaya 7 (Dan Ewing aka Dillon’s sister), Kane is truly one of the most successful actors in the entire cast.
The Australian actress has starred in several television series such as Queen of Scots, Teen Wolf, and Once Upon a Time. Furthermore, the actress also starred in The Purge franchise as Ethan Hawke‘s daughter and in Grey’s Anatomy.
4. Brandon Jay McLaren: Power Rangers SPD
No Power Rangers fan needs an introduction to Brandon Jay McLaren. Known for portraying the Red Ranger (Jack Landors) in Power Rangers SPD, the Canadian actor has an amazing fan base thanks to the role. Yet he has not been confined by the role and has gone on to star in numerous other successful projects.
After being a Power Ranger, McLaren starred in Graceland, The Killing, Falling Skies, and the movie She’s the Man. Last seen in Slasher, it is safe to say the actor has made quite a name for himself as an actor.
3. Eka Darville: Power Rangers R.P.M.
Eka Darville is now known for starring in The Originals, The Vampire Diaries, Spartacus, Terra Nova, Empire, and more. Yet before that, he starred as the unacknowledged and troubled son of Colonel Mason Truman, Scott Truman aka the Red Ranger in Power Rangers R.P.M.
Yet unlike other actors, the star made a big career jump by becoming part of the MCU as Malcolm Ducasse in the Netflix Marvel series, Jessica Jones. With the series now part of the MCU, maybe the actor might return as Ducasse again.
2. Emma Lahana: Power Rangers Dino Thunder
After getting a kick start by starring as the Yellow Ranger, Kira Ford in Power Rangers Dino Thunder, Emma Lahana has had an amazing career so far. While most of her fans would probably know her best as a Power Ranger, the New Zealander has been in several series.
From starring in Stargate Atlantis, Pysch, Heartland, and even Supernatural, Lahana has proven her worth as an actress who can portray a variety of roles. However, the biggest role of her career is probably her becoming part of the Marvel universe by starring in the Disney+ series, Marvel’s Cloak and Dagger.
1. Bryan Cranston: Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers
Bryan Cranston is the last name any Power Rangers fan or non-fan would have expected to be on this list. The incredible actor needs no introduction having starred in numerous award-winning roles and series and movies. But back in the 1990’s the actor had a small role in Mighty Morphin’ Power Rangers.
He voiced the villain Snizard (a part snake and part lizard-like monster) and Twinman and also showed up in two episodes: Foul Play in the Sky and A Bad Reflection on You. While he has since earned critical acclaim is and surely one of the most successful actors on this list, Cranston’s small role in the Power Rangers franchise is no small deal.
