Buena Vista International TelevisionPower Rangers Ninja Storm star Pua Magasiva has been found dead at the age of 38.
Pua was found dead at an address in Wellington, New Zealand, in the early hours of May 11, with a police spokesperson stating there are no suspicious circumstances.
Our Fresh aiga are devastated by the news of Pua Magasiva's passing, and all our alofa goes out to the Magasiva family at this sad time.
Pua lit up the lives of so many Pasifika people with his humour, warmth and alofa which he brought to Pacific communities and to the world. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/RKVeu85Vmh— Fresh TV (@FreshTV2) May 11, 2019
A South Pacific Pictures spokesperson confirmed Pua’s death to the New Zealand Herald. However, they did not give any further comment.
Pua was known for playing Red Wind Ranger Shane Clarke in Power Rangers Ninja Storm, the eleventh season in the Power Rangers franchise.
He also starred in New Zealand soap opera Shortland Street, and was a breakfast show co-host on the New Zealand radio station Flava.
We are devastated by the news that one of the lights in the Power Rangers family has gone dark. Pua Magasiva, known to so many as Shane, the red Ninja Storm ranger, passed away this morning. Power Morphicon is so sorry to hear of this significant loss. pic.twitter.com/W4jS0tIrgA
— Power Morphicon Convention (@PowerMorphicon) May 11, 2019
Michael Boggs – chief executive of NZME, which owns Flava – has given the following statement according to the New Zealand Herald:
It is with deep sadness that the NZME family has today been told of the sudden death of Pua Magasiva. At this incredibly difficult time our thoughts, prayers and condolences go to Pua’s family, friends and his many colleagues.
For us at NZME, Pua was a loved member of our radio team at Flava. We’ve been in touch with Pua’s former work mates and are offering them support.
Tributes have poured in from Pua’s former co-stars, with Jason Chan – who portrayed Cam the Samurai Green Ranger – making the following touching Facebook tribute:
Unbelievably sad to hear the news. Our dear friend, fellow actor in Ninja Storm was such a ball of energy, so full of life and inspired all around him to live to the fullest.
I will always remember his smiles, giggling, deep laughter in all circumstances. RIP Pua Magasiva you will be dearly missed!
Ninja Storm was an important Power Rangers season for me.
It was the first one that hit every note I could want in a show. Corny, action-packed, funny, dramatic, witty.And it all relied on an amazing cast and crew.
Gonna miss you Pua Magasiva. Bless you, wherever you are. pic.twitter.com/xURSOJCTW9— Elvis Dutan (@the_snickman) May 11, 2019
Glen McMillan – who played Dustin the Yellow Ranger – wrote the following Instagram message, accompanied by some behind the scenes photographs:
A few behind the scenes photos from my library. My heart aches for our beloved Pua. Always fun, full of energy, lifted up those around him…I’ll always remember you this way. Rest easy brother. #PRNS #powerrangers
https://www.instagram.com/p/BxT72IGgldF/
Pua leaves behind his wife Lizz Sadler, and a young daughter from his previous marriage.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Pua Magasiva at this difficult time.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
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Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.