If you grew up watching Power Rangers, you’re familiar with its focus on high kicks, epic battles, and teamwork. But behind the colorful suits, some real-life stories are far from heroic. At TV Acute, we’re diving into the wild and tragic tale of Ricardo Medina Jr., a former Red Ranger whose life took a dark turn. Investigation Discovery’s “Hollywood Demons: Dark Side of the Power Rangers,“ which premiered on April 7, 2025, is a must-watch series that delves into the scandals roiling this iconic franchise. So, what happened to Ricardo Medina Jr.? Let’s break it down.
From Power Ranger to Prime Time
Ricardo Medina Jr., born January 24, 1979, in Kern County, California, isn’t just a random name. This Puerto Rican descent actor, raised in Downey, kicked off his journey with a love for sports—think football, martial arts, and wrestling. That athletic vibe paid off when he snagged the role of Cole Evans, the Red Wild Force Ranger, in Power Rangers Wild Force back in 2002. As he assumed the role of Cole Evans, the Red Wild Force Ranger, in Power Rangers Wild Force in 2002, Ricardo excelled and swiftly won over the fans.
His success didn’t stop there. Over the years, he popped up in shows like CSI: Miami and movies like Confessions of a Pit Fighter and Parasomnia. Then, in 2011, he returned to the Power Rangers world as Deker, a cursed half-human Nighlok in Power Rangers Samurai. The person had talent and a growing resume—things were looking up. Off-screen, though, Ricardo kept it low-key until 2014, when he met Rachel Kennedy on a dating app. She ran a dog rescue ranch in Green Valley, California, and soon hired him to help out. Little did anyone know, this move would set the stage for a life-altering twist.
The Day Everything Changed
Fast forward to January 31, 2015. Ricardo, then 36, was living in Green Valley, sharing a space with Joshua “Josh” Sutter, Rachel’s 38-year-old brother. What started as a regular day turned deadly fast. The two got into a heated argument—rumor has it, over Ricardo’s girlfriend—and things escalated. Ricardo grabbed a medieval-style sword (yep, a “Conan the Barbarian” vibe) and stabbed Josh once in the abdomen. He called 911 right after, but it was too late; Josh didn’t make it.
The cops swooped in, and Ricardo Medina Jr. was arrested on February 1, 2015, for suspected murder. Locked up in Antelope Valley jail with a $1 million bail, he insisted it was self-defense. According to him, Josh had barged into his bedroom, where he’d retreated with his girlfriend, leaving him no choice. Surprisingly, just two days later, on February 3, the DA let him go, saying they needed more time to dig into the case. Ricardo walked free, telling the press, “I’m very sorry for what happened. I’m happy to be out, and my heart goes out to the Sutter family.”
Back Behind Bars—and a Plea Deal
Freedom didn’t last long. On January 14, 2016, Ricardo Medina Jr. arrested again, this time with murder charges sticking. Facing a possible life sentence, the pressure was on. But in March 2017, he took a plea deal, admitting to voluntary manslaughter instead. On March 30, 2017, a judge handed him a six-year sentence. Here’s the exciting part: Ricardo Medina Jr. release date came way earlier than expected. After serving just three years, he was out on parole in 2020. How’s that for a plot twist?
Where Is Ricardo Medina Jr. Now?
After his release from prison in 2020, the former Red Ranger pulled off a disappearing act worthy of a TV plot twist. He has completely disappeared, leaving no flashy interviews or social media posts behind. Ricardo Medina Jr. release date might’ve been a big moment, but he didn’t stick around to bask in the spotlight. Instead, he’s opted for a low-profile life, steering clear of the cameras and chaos that once defined his world. As of Ricardo Medina Jr. 2025 updates, there’s still no fresh scoop. Is he working a regular job? Laying low in California? Nobody knows, and he’s not telling.
What about Ricardo Medina Jr. wife? Fans are curious, but there’s no evidence he’s tied the knot. That unnamed girlfriend from the 2015 incident? She’s still a ghost in the story—no name, no updates. For now, Ricardo’s keeping his personal life locked tighter than a Power Rangers vault. Maybe he’s just done with the fame game, choosing peace over headlines. After all, who wouldn’t want a breather after that rollercoaster? Perhaps he will reappear in the future, but for now, he remains a mystery worthy of contemplation. What do you think he’s up to? Let’s chat about it!
Got thoughts on this? Drop them below—I’d love to hear what you think!
Read More: Jonathan Cherol Murder: What Happened to Colette and Sam Collins?
