Full Metal Jacket actor Kevyn Major Howard dies at 69

Kevyn Major Howard, best known for his role as Rafterman in Stanley Kubrick’s 1987 war film Full Metal Jacket, has died at the age of 69.

According to TMZ, Howard passed away on Friday at a Las Vegas hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for respiratory issues for several weeks. His family confirmed his passing, though the exact cause of death has yet to be determined.

Howard’s former co-star Matthew Modine paid tribute to him on X, remembering him as a generous individual deeply committed to supporting the U.S. armed forces. “He became famous for his role of ‘Rafterman’ in Full Metal Jacket,” Modine wrote. “His portrayal gave him a unique entrée into the world of the U.S. Marine Corps, leading him on a decades-long journey of service to our nation’s bravest.”

Beyond Full Metal Jacket, Howard had an extensive career in both television and film. He appeared in popular TV series such as Cagney & Lacey, The A-Team, MacGyver, Magnum, P.I., and The Outsiders. His final credited role was in the 1999 series Crusade, according to IMDb.

On the big screen, Howard starred alongside Hollywood legends, appearing in Sudden Impact (1983) with Clint Eastwood, Alien Nation (1988) with James Caan, and Death Wish II (1982) with Charles Bronson.

Born on January 27, 1956, in Montreal, Quebec, Howard later moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting. Outside of Hollywood, he was widely recognized for his longstanding dedication to military service initiatives.

His passing marks the loss of a notable actor whose contributions, particularly in Full Metal Jacket, left a lasting impression on audiences and the industry alike.