Famed actor Kevyn Major Howard, best known for his role as Rafterman in the Stanley Kubrick film “Full Metal Jacket,” died at 69 in Las Vegas, Nevada, on February 14, 2025. His family confirmed he died surrounded by those he held dear, following hospitalization for respiratory complications. The precise cause of death is still under investigation.
Born on January 27, 1956, in Montreal, Canada, Howard moved to Los Angeles and began his acting career in the late 1970s. He landed his first significant film role in “The Serial,” and then shared screen time with Charles Bronson in “Death Wish II.” His performance as Private First Class Rafterman in Kubrick’s Vietnam War film in 1987 became his signature role, spurring his lifelong dedication to military causes.
Matthew Modine, a co-star in “Full Metal Jacket,” shared a heartfelt online tribute. He stated that Howard’s contributions extended beyond the screen, especially towards the servicemen and servicewomen in the military. Modine noted that Howard’s portrayal in the film fostered a unique bond with the US Marine Corps, inspiring a lifelong commitment to supporting the country’s heroes.
Howard’s extensive career included numerous television and film roles. He acted alongside Clint Eastwood in the 1983 film “Sudden Impact” and had a minor role in “Scarface.” His television credits include roles on well-known series such as “MacGyver,” “Magnum P.I.,” “Miami Vice,” “Cagney & Lacey,” “The A-Team,” and “The Outsiders.”
In a 2007 interview, Howard reflected on his role in “Full Metal Jacket,” saying it “gave him a deeper understanding of patriotism, pride, and the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military.”
In Kubrick’s acclaimed war film, Howard’s character Rafterman is a Vietnam War correspondent alongside Modine’s character, Private Joker. A key scene in which Rafterman shoots a sniper before she can inflict further casualties on their squad remains one of the film’s most notable moments.
After his last credited performance in the 1999 television series “Crusade,” Howard transitioned to a successful career in photography. Known as the “King of the Hollywood headshot,” he demonstrated his artistic range beyond acting.
Howard’s dedication to military causes resulted in the creation of the Fueled By The Fallen Foundation, aimed at supporting military personnel, law enforcement, and those affected by 9/11. His family plans to continue his legacy of honoring those in service and upholding the values of ‘Yes Sir, No Sir, Please & Thank You.’
Howard is survived by his wife Tiffanie, stepdaughter Kayla, sister Kim, and brother Kelsey. The family asks for donations to FueledBytheFallen.org, rather than flowers.