In Stanley Kubrick’s *Full Metal Jacket*, Vincent D’Onofrio delivered a memorable performance as Leonard, the chubby, inexperienced Marine recruit.
However, despite this iconic role, his popularity declined afterward. At 64, D’Onofrio shared that the physical transformation required for the role made him less appealing to women, who had previously been drawn to his curly black hair and athletic build.
D’Onofrio boasts an impressive and diverse career, fully immersing himself in each character, often leaving audiences unaware of his true identity.
Born in Brooklyn, he began his journey as a bodyguard for Yul Brynner and Robert Plant, balancing various side jobs to support his acting aspirations, including working as a bouncer, flower delivery driver, curtain hanger, and taxi driver.
Encouraged by his friend Matthew Modine, D’Onofrio auditioned for Kubrick’s film after appearing in several low-budget projects. In June 2023, he filed for divorce from Carin van der Donk, ending their 26-year marriage.
Fans can look forward to seeing him alongside Sandra Bullock in the upcoming comedy *Dumb Money* and in the 2021 film *The Unforgivable*.
What do you think of his portrayal of Leonard?