Legendary ‘Full Metal Jacket’ Actor Dies Suddenly at Age 74

Best known for his role in “Full Metal Jacket,” news of R. Lee Ermey’s passing came as a shock to fans across on Sunday, April 15.

He was only 74 years of age. The news was released by his manager, Bill Rogin.

Ermey was famous for playing military personalities in movies and television, but for him, it wasn’t just acting.

He was also a former Marine Corps drill instructor, retiring after 11 years of service.

Besides “Full Metal Jacket,” his other acting credits include “Mississippi Burning,” “Prefontaine,” and the remake of “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.”

He also voiced the Army green solider from “Toy Story” and had voiced roles in “SpongeBob SquarePants.”

In a statement posted on Facebook, Rogin said Ermey passed away from complications from pneumonia.

“It is a terrible loss that nobody was prepared for,” wrote Rogin. “He has meant so much to so many people.”

“And, it is extremely difficult to truly quantify all of the great things this man has selflessly done for, and on behalf of, our many men and women in uniform.”

“He has also contributed many iconic and indelible characters on film that will live on forever,” wrote Rogin.

He ended the heartfelt statement with, “Semper Fi, Gunny. Godspeed.”

Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time.

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