Full Metal Jacket Rafterman actor dies after illness battle as tributes paid
Kevyn Major Howard, best known for his role in Full Metal Jacket, has sadly passed away at the age of 69 after battling health problems for an extended period.
Kevyn Major Howard, famed for his role as Rafterman in the cult classic Full Metal Jacket, has passed away at 69. His family told TMZ that he died in a Las Vegas hospital on Friday.
The sad news of his passing was released by his family on Feb. 15. According to TMZ, the accomplished actor and renowned photographer spent his last moments surrounded by loved ones in hospital.
Although Kevyn had faced respiratory issues and had been admitted for an extended stay in the hospital, the exact cause of his death has not been announced.
Born in Montreal, Quebec, on Jan. 27, 1956, Kevyn's fruitful acting career led him to feature in a host of well-known 1980s films including Full Metal Jacket (1987), Death Wish II (1982), Sudden Impact (1983), and Alien Nation (1988). Beyond his memorable screen appearances, Kevyn carved out an illustrious 36-year career as a photographer, gaining acclaim for his actor, musician, and business professional portraits.
(Image: Getty Images)
He secured his place in the industry as the "King of the Hollywood headshot" after appearing on the BBC show The Human Face and became the top headshot photographer once he stepped back from acting, as reported by the Mirror, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Throughout his illustrious career, the star had the honour of collaborating with a host of celebrated figures, including Frank Sinatra, Clint Eastwood, Charles Bronson, Ron Howard, James Caan, Willem Dafoe, Lawrence Fishburne, Robert Blake, George Peppard, Tom Selleck, Don Johnson, Matthew Modine, Vincent D'Onofrio, Adam Baldwin, Ed O'Ross, Arliss Howard, and many more. Kevyn regarded eyes as the "window to the soul" and concentrated on them to capture the perfect headshot for his clients.
(Image: WireImage)
His page declares: "His headshots capture a look, a glance, a nuance that brings a 2D image to life. When viewing Kevyn's work you will experience the deliberate precision, accuracy, and illumination with which Kevyn captures his subject's eyes. The eyes are absolutely the expression of the actors personality and charisma; they are the key to anyone's success."
Additionally, the page reveals Kevyn's life philosophies: "His philosophies to having a successful journey as a film actor are 'simple anecdotes'. Be the best you can be – be simple – be authentic – be honest – strive for excellence in professionalism. These are all critical to being successful as an actor."
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