If you were a child of the ‘80s then the ‘Mighty Morphin Power Rangers’ was half-a-decade too late.
But if you were an early-‘90s kid, was there anything better than a couple of Pop-Tarts and turning the telly on to watch the Black, Red, Blue, Yellow, Green and Pink Rangers battle evil forces and rescue the world from inherent danger each afternoon?
Today, the ‘Power Rangers’ show is still airing, but with a longlist of replacement actors/ characters now populating the set. But later this month, Supanova will feature the original Black Ranger, Walter Jones.
How did you become the Black Ranger?
My agent sent me on the audition. They wanted an actor that could do martial arts, dance hip hop, and do gymnastics. I had the skills required to get the job done and with a little luck (chemistry with the other actors they liked) got the job!!
The Power Ranger suits; were they comfortable to wear?
Not too bad. They do require assistance to go to the bathroom due to the back zipper.
What was the fandom like back at the start of the show?
Kids were shy, parents were crazy!!! They would do anything to get autographs or merchandise for their kids.
Do you still own your own Black Ranger suit?
No, I didn’t get to keep it. I have one being made for me.
The strangest Power Ranger-related fan request you ever had?
I have met a few girls that want to where my helmet. Lol
Being a part of such an iconic, kids series, do you feel privileged to have been a part of such a successful franchise?
I feel blessed that I have left such a positive impression on so many people. I'm proud to have made a difference.
Have you had any Power Rangers reunion parties?
I have not hosted any, but I have been to a few. Power Morphicon is like the biggest Ranger reunion you could ever attend! Everyone is invited!
When it comes to Halloween and dress-up parties, how often do you see Power Rangers costumes?
I see them all the time! I like that they are beginning to meld with other characters. I saw an Iron Man-Black Ranger mix that was pretty cool!
What other voice-over, acting work have you done during your career?
Lots of looping. This year: ‘Divergent’, ‘22 Jump Street’, ‘Spider-Man’ and ‘Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs 2’ to name a few.
You were also a salsa dancer on the Mark Philippoussis reality show, ‘Age Of Love’... what was that experience like? And is the 'Scud' a good bloke?
He was cool! A funny guy!! The experience was very spontaneous. I was working with these people that were excited about making a good impression. I wanted to help them be their best.
What else occupies your day-to-day life these days?
I love watching movies. I've been travelling a lot, so I have some catching up to do. I also love dancing, hiking and spending time with family.
Your Wiki page says your ‘a black belt in Eshum-ru, a form of Tae Kwon Do'. How important is martial arts to your everyday life?
Isshin-ryu is a style of Okinawan karate. I'm a brown belt in it. A black belt in Hap Kido. I no longer study everyday. I don't have enough time. I think it's a great way to focus energy on physical and mental health.
You're headed to Australia for Supanova... do you look forward to interacting with fans on a one-on-one/ group basis?
Yes, I have known a few Australians and they have never disappointed me in being fun and interesting people. I can't wait to meet the fans and hopefully find a few salsa dancers to hang with!
Walter Jones aka the original Black Mighty Morphin Power Ranger will be a special guest at Supanova, which takes place at the Adelaide Showgrounds on 22nd & 23rd November and the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre on 28th, 29th & 30th November.
