Pua Magasiva, star of “Shortland Street” and “Power Rangers: Ninja Storm,” was found dead in Wellington, New Zealand on Saturday at the age of 38.
Magasiva got his start in acting through “Power Rangers,” playing Red Ranger Shane Clarke in the kids series’ eleventh season in 2003. Magasiva joined the show after Disney, which acquired “Power Rangers” from Saban, moved production of the series to New Zealand to keep costs down.
That same year, Magasiva became known in New Zealand on the soap opera “Shortland Street,” playing comic-relief nurse Vinnie Kruse. Magasiva played the role from 2003-06, later returning to the show in 2011. Magasiva also had a career in radio, co-hosting the morning show on Kiwi station Flava. He left the show in 2018.
Wellington Police told the New Zealand Herald that they received reports of Magasiva’s death at an address in the city’s central business district. No suspicious circumstances were found at the scene, and the cause of death has yet to be reported by the coroner.
“At this incredibly difficult time our thoughts, prayers and condolences go to Pua’s family, friends and his many colleagues,” read a statement from media organization NZME. “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.”
Magasiva’s “Power Rangers” co-stars took to Instagram to express their condolences and post their pictures with him on the set of “Ninja Storm” 16 years ago.
“My heart aches for our beloved Pua,” wrote Glenn McMillan. “Always fun, full of energy, lifted up those around him…I’ll always remember you this way. Rest easy brother.”
