Why Jason The Red Power Ranger Left MMPR (And What He's Doing Now)

Austin St. John had a pretty interesting life after ending Jason's journey on "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers." Outside the show, he was an actual martial artist, holding numerous black belts in Taekwondo, Judo, and Kenpo. For many years, St. John worked as a paramedic in Washington D.C., and offered healthcare in the Middle East with the U.S. military.

Although St. John's Jason never returned to "Mighty Morphin," the actor has reprised the role in a few other "Power Rangers" projects. He first returned in "Power Rangers Zeo," a continuation of the original series, becoming the second Gold Ranger. He also appeared in "Forever Red," an episode of "Wild Force" celebrating the legacy of the Red Rangers, and "Beast Morphers," leading a massive team of Rangers. Other than "Power Rangers," St. John's list of on-screen appearances is sparse.

Unfortunately, one of his off-screen ventures overshadows much of what St. John has done since "Mighty Morphin." In 2022, the actor admitted to playing a role in falsifying business records to abuse the CARES Act and steal millions of dollars. The scheme planned to take advantage of the Paycheck Protection Program offered to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, with St. John facing up to 20 years in prison. The legal issues kept him from returning for the reunion special, "Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Once & Always."