Actor R. Lee Ermey Dies at 74 Ermey’s manager, Bill Rogin, confirmed the actor’s death on Sunday. Bill Rogan, via Facebook Bill Rogan, via Facebook Best known for his role as a drill sergeant in Stanley Kubrick’s 1987 film ‘Full Metal Jacket,’ Ermey died due to complications of pneumonia. His real-life experience as a Vietnam veteran in the Marine Corps helped him secure a nomination for best supporting actor at the Golden Globes.