Kevyn Major Howard, ‘Full Metal Jacket’ Actor Who Played Rafterman, Dies at 68

Kevyn Major Howard, best known for his role as Rafterman in Stanley Kubrick's Full Metal Jacket, has passed away at the age of 68. He died on Friday, February 14, in a Las Vegas hospital, surrounded by loved ones. Howard had been hospitalized for weeks due to respiratory issues, though the exact cause of death has not been determined.

‘Full Metal Jacket’ star dead at 69 https://t.co/XQ2RCSdEWa pic.twitter.com/beV0rCjQbH

— New York Post (@nypost) February 15, 2025

A Versatile Acting Career

Born on January 27, 1956, in Montreal, Quebec, Howard moved to Los Angeles to pursue an acting career. He appeared in several hit TV series, including Cagney & Lacey, The A-Team, MacGyver, and Magnum, P.I.. His film credits include Sudden Impact with Clint Eastwood, Alien Nation with James Caan, and Death Wish II with Charles Bronson. His last credited role was in the 1999 series Crusade.

A Lasting Friendship with Matthew Modine

Howard remained close friends with Full Metal Jacket co-star Matthew Modine. The two spoke shortly before Howard’s passing. Modine shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, remembering Howard as a kind and generous person, dedicated to supporting the U.S. armed forces.

Kevyn Major Howard, best known for his portrayal as Rafterman in "Full Metal Jacket," has died ???? pic.twitter.com/4Z2RK6uIi8

— TMZ (@TMZ) February 16, 2025

A New Passion for Photography

Later in life, Howard transitioned from acting to photography, focusing on capturing powerful images and storytelling through his lens.