Kevyn Major Howard, best known for his unforgettable role as Rafterman in the iconic war film Full Metal Jacket, has passed away at the age of 69.
Personally, I believe Full Metal Jacket is one of the best war movies I’ve ever seen. It stands out because it doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of both the U.S. military and the Vietnam War, unlike typical U.S. propaganda films.
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It gives an unfiltered look at the brutality and dehumanization of war, making it all the more impactful and impressive.
Breakthrough in Hollywood
Released in 1987, the film explores the harsh realities of the Vietnam War, following a group of Marines from their brutal training at boot camp to the front lines of battle. And Kevyn Major Howard’s portrayal of the eager yet disillusioned Private First Class Rafterman – a combat photographer, tagging along with Matthew Modine’s character, Joker, to document the war.
Kevyn’s performance remains one of the standout moments of the film, if you ask me. For Howard, the film left a lasting mark on his career, and he once described director Stanley Kubrick as an all-knowing father figure and even compared him to the Dalai Lama.
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After his memorable role in Full Metal Jacket, Kevyn Major Howard made a brief return to television, appearing in the 1988 episode “Line of Fire” of the cult classic Miami Vice. His other film credits included Sudden Impact with Clint Eastwood and Death Wish II with Charles Bronson. However, by 1999, the Montreal-born Canadian chose to retire from acting, with his final credit being an appearance on Crusade.
In the years that followed, Howard found a new passion—headshot photography. He quickly became known as one of the best in the business, earning the title of ”King of the Hollywood headshot” in the BBC show The Human Face. His transition from actor to photographer proved to be a successful one, cementing his legacy in an entirely different arena. Kevyn also became a founder of a charity for veterans and first responders and their families.
“Although I haven’t been in a war, I have a much clearer understanding of patriotism, and the pride and courage it takes to serve your country,” Howard said and added:
Many of the Marines that I have met have seen ‘Full Metal Jacket’ and I believe that although I have never been to war, my work on this film continues to serve as a bridge that allows them to come face to face with the personal sacrifices they have made. It also allows me to stand in silence beside them and bear witness to their own personal tribute to their fallen comrades.”
Cause of death
Kevyn Major Howard’s family shared with TMZ that he passed away at a Las Vegas hospital on Friday, February 14, surrounded by loved ones. He was 69.
Howard had been in the hospital for several weeks leading up to his death due to respiratory issues, though his official cause of death has not been confirmed.
”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 said in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.
He is survived by his wife Tiffanie, stepdaughter Kayla, and siblings Kim and Kelsey, as reported by The Daily Mail.
R.I.P Kevyn Major Howard, very sad about this, sending condolences to his loved ones and friends ❤️
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