'Acute stage of grief': Family's tribute after Power Rangers star's sudden death
Tributes have flooded in for New Zealand actor Pua Magasiva who was found dead in Wellington.
The 38-year-old Samoan-born actor, who gained worldwide fame for his role in several Power Rangers television series, was found dead at a property in Wellington early on Saturday morning, the New Zealand Herald reported.
Magasiva, who played the role of Red Wind Ranger Shane Clarke in the superhero franchise as well as Nurse Vinnie Kruse until 2018 in New Zealand soap Shortland Street, was understood to be with his wife, Lizz Sadler, at the time of his death.
The cause of his death is yet to be revealed and police investigations are ongoing.
A family statement shared by their spokesperson to the New Zealand Herald said they were shocked over his sudden death.
"Pua's family members are in the acute stage of grief and are not in a place to comment at this time other than to acknowledge the public outpouring of love for Pua and to thank all those who've expressed their condolences and offered their support," the statement said.
As news of Magasiva’s death began to spread, tributes flooded in from former co-stars and adorning fans.
"Incredibly sad to hear that one of our ranger family is gone,” Power Rangers co-star Jason Chan wrote on Facebook.
“It will never be the same again. PUA you will be so dearly missed. You were the centre of energy on set and off.
“Always laughing, giggling and involved in practical jokes."
@PuaMagasiva You had this unique ability to make whoever you were talking to, feel like they were the only person in the room. You lit up every room you entered with your kind, joyful and generous spirit. You had a wonderful heart. It was an honour to know and work with you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/jkcxZbMqrD
— Ido Drent (@idodrent) May 11, 2019
Shortland star Ido Drent took to Twitter to pay his respects.
"You had this unique ability to make whoever you were talking to, feel like they were the only person in the room," he posted online.
"You lit up every room you entered with your kind, joyful and generous spirit.
"You had a wonderful heart. It was an honour to know and work with you."
Magasiva, whose brother Robbie Magasiva is also an actor, is survived by his wife and a seven-year-old daughter from a previous relationship.
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