Power Rangers Lost Galaxy's Kai Chen Actor Addresses Potential Franchise Return: "As A Middle-Aged Kai?"

Speaking with ScreenRant about his new series on Hulu, Interior Chinatown, Kao addressed the possibility of returning as Kai following his prominent role in Power Rangers Lost Galaxy. The actor said he's open to coming back to the role and rejoining the franchise, reflecting on how lucky he feels to have been part of the show in the first place. However, he is very much open to the idea of coming back. Check out what Kao had to say below:

As a middle-aged Kai? I would be delighted to reconnect with that character. I don't know how that would make sense, but I'd be game to have a conversation about it. Where's the show now?

I wish I could take credit for its impact, but I was just lucky enough to join the cast. All these years later, I see that it has brought joy to all these people, and I got to be a beneficiary of that. I wish I could say it was my doing, but it wasn't. But I'm so thrilled for any possible experience with them in and around the franchise. I'd be delighted to entertain that.

What Kao's Interest In Returning To Power Rangers Says About The Franchise

It's Still Beloved By Its Stars Decades Later

While Kao himself hasn't portrayed Kai since 2002, the character has shown up multiple times in archival footage throughout a multitude of series in the franchise. His last direct, on-screen appearance was in the final episode of Power Rangers Super Megaforce, where he appeared without lines in a major crossover pulled from Super Sentai footage. He's also implied to have appeared during the end of Power Rangers Cosmic Fury, where he's helping to pilot the Galaxy Megazord. Although Kao himself hasn't shown up again, his presence remained strong throughout the franchise.

The actor's interest in reprising his role shows just how beloved the series is from those who were involved with it, even decades later. However, it doesn't seem likely he'll get a chance to return, with Cosmic Fury's finale serving as the final chapter of the timeline that began with Mighty Morphin Power Rangers. Although the Power Rangers reboot show hasn't had any details confirmed yet, Hasbro's decision is seemingly to start from scratch, something that would make it impossible for Kao to come back to the series.

Our Take On Kao's Interest In Coming Back To Power Rangers

A Nostalgic Tribute To Lost Galaxy Could Be Well-Received

Although there are plans to start the franchise from scratch, Kao's interest in returning emphasizes the potential the series still has to tap into the nostalgia of past teams. A tribute to Power Rangers Lost Galaxy in a similar vein to Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: Once & Always could work well, bringing the show's old team together in honor of its history. While the TV show remains dormant for right now, there's still a possible future where Kao returns as Kai and dons his Galaxy Blue Ranger persona once again.