Although considered a groundbreaking step toward representation in television, almost 30 years later, Power Rangers needs to fix one of its biggest mistakes towards the LGBTQ+ community. When Saban Entertainment was making the original Might Morphin' Power Rangers series, past s suggest that behind-the-scenes bullying cost the series one of its most beloved characters and traumatized the actor playing him. With changing times, a more accepting environment, and rumors of a reunion for Power Rangers' 30th anniversary, it’s time the series addressed its past and finally ed the courageous actor who helped to define its legacy.

Billy Cranston, also known as the Blue Ranger on the The Simpsons’ Poochie departure. While statements addressing the actor’s quitting blamed contract disputes, the accepted explanation is the one Yost gave which cited homophobia behind the scenes.

Related: Everything We Know About The Power Rangers Shared Universe

Since Power Rangers Zeo, Yost has yet to return to the series. However, a lot has changed since the ‘90s; Yost reconnected and reconciled with some of his former co-stars, and Power Rangers began to embrace LGBTQ+ representation. Additionally, with rumors of the original Blue Ranger returning to the series for its 30th anniversary (via The Illuminerdi) and him pitching his own Power Rangers project known as “Quantum Continuum,” it’s time to finally make the character of Billy Cranston canonically part of the LGBTQ+ community. Not only to validate and acknowledge Yost’s struggles but to remind fans that they don't need to be straight to be a Power Ranger; they just have to have attitude.

Billy And Kimberly In The Power Rangers Movie

David Yost has commented (via Power Rangers introduced a reimagined yellow ranger with “girlfriend problems,” 2021’s Power Rangers Dino Fury had an onscreen LGBTQ+ relationship, and even characters like the non-binary Death Ranger have become part of the series’ lore. Having become more commonplace within the medium, Billy being gay or bisexual wouldn’t be as taboo as when the original show premiered.

David Yost's return to Power Rangers’ cast, whether through the rumored reunion or "Quantum Continuum," would present an opportunity to reconcile the actor's traumatic past. As Yost is a survivor of conversion therapy, allowing his character to be openly gay would be a powerful message to fans that it’s ok to be yourself. Additionally, now on good with his former cast , it'd be nice to see their friendship reflected in the characters and show that once a ranger, always a ranger.

Since 1993, Power Rangers has changed Saturday mornings and helped bring together multiple generations. However, for its future to progress and its 30th anniversary celebrated, Power Rangers needs to reflect on the Power Rangers’ history and the actors who helped define it. If David Yost returns, it needs to be a homecoming that re heroes like him who were part of Zordon’s color-coordinated rainbow.

Next: Power Rangers' Shared Universe Could Begin With Its Endgame

Want more LGBTQ+ Content? Check out our essential reading below...