‘Full Metal Jacket’ Star Passes Away At 69

Kevyn Major Howard, the actor who brought Rafterman to life in Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket, has died at the age of 69.

Howard passed away Friday in a Las Vegas hospital, surrounded by loved ones, his family told TMZ. While the exact cause of death has not yet been determined, he had been battling respiratory issues for weeks prior to his passing.

In Stanley Kubrick’s 1987 war film Full Metal Jacket, Howard’s performance as the eager yet naive war photographer who undergoes a transformation during the Vietnam War remains one of his most recognizable roles. The film, considered one of the greatest war movies of all time, helped cement Howard’s place in Hollywood.

Born and raised in Canada, Howard pursued acting in the 1980s, appearing in numerous television shows and films. He built a career playing supporting characters in both dramatic and action-oriented roles.

His early work included appearances in Death Wish II (1982), Sudden Impact (1983), and Alien Nation (1988).

While Full Metal Jacket remains his most well-known film, his extensive career includes guest roles on TV series such as Miami Vice, Magnum, P.I., and Murder, She Wrote.

“Kevyn was a loving family man who left a legacy that extends beyond his film career. His efforts to advocate for remembering our fallen heroes and his ongoing support dedicated to our military, law enforcement, and those affected by the 9/11 attacks will live on through his foundation, Fueled By The Fallen,” Howard’s family told Fox News.

“His family wishes to continue his mission of remembering the seven forgotten words: ‘Yes Sir, No Sir, Please & Thank You’ for our aspiring youth. May we never forget and always remain in remembrance. He passed peacefully, holding his wife’s hand on the international day of love.”

Howard’s family ended their statement with a quote he frequently shared with loved ones: “Miss you. Love you. Bye.”

Beyond acting, Howard was active in philanthropy, particularly in supporting military veterans. He launched the Fueled by the Fallen initiative, which provides support and awareness for military, first responders, and their families.

The project features tribute vehicles that honor fallen soldiers, raising funds and awareness for those who have served.

Though not a household name, Howard’s career in Hollywood and his contributions off-screen made him a respected figure in both the entertainment industry and charitable circles. His dedication to honoring service members reflects the very role that made him famous—a young journalist documenting the realities of war.

In “Full Metal Jacket,” Howard documents the war with Matthew Modine’s character, Joker.

Modine honored Howard on X, formerly Twitter, saying, “Kevyn Major Howard gave and gave and gave so much to the world and especially the men and women of our armed forces. He became famous for his role of ‘Rafterman’ in Stanley Kubrick’s FULL METAL JACKET. His portrayal gave him a unique entrée into the world of the US Marine Corps.”

Kevyn Major Howard gave and gave and gave so much to the world and especially the men and women of our armed forces. He became famous for his role of ‘Rafterman’ in Stanley Kubrick’s FULL METAL JACKET. His portrayal gave him a unique entrée into the world of the US Marine Corps.… pic.twitter.com/Kc2dYFEwb6

— Matthew Modine (@MatthewModine) February 16, 2025

Howard is survived by his wife, Tiffany; his stepdaughter, Kayla; his sister, Kim; and his brother, Kelsey.