Kris Kristofferson, renowned country music artist and actor known for his role opposite Barbra Streisand in A Star Is Born, has passed away at the age of 88. Learn more about his remarkable life and career. The entertainment industry mourns the loss of a legend. Kristofferson, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and actor known for films like Blade and the 1970s rendition of A Star Is Born, died peacefully at his Maui, Hawaii home on September 28, surrounded by family.
The Texas native, who was also a former U.S. Army helicopter pilot, began his musical journey as a Rhodes scholar at the University of Oxford in the 1950s and gained fame as a singer-songwriter in the late ’60s. He found success with hits like “Why Me” and Grammy-winning duets with then-wife Rita Coolidge, including “From the Bottle to the Bottom” and “Lover Please.” Kristofferson also penned hits made famous by others, such as “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” performed by Johnny Cash and “Me and Bobby McGee,” sung by Janis Joplin. Notably, Kristofferson listed “writer” as his occupation on his passport, according to The New York Times.
Inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004, Kristofferson’s acting career included roles in over 70 films until his retirement in 2021. His notable performances include his Golden Globe-winning role opposite Barbra Streisand in the 1976 A Star Is Born. The duo reunited several times, including a memorable 2019 performance in London’s Hyde Park. Kristofferson also starred in the Blade trilogy, Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid, Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Heaven’s Gate, and Lone Star.
He is survived by his wife of over 40 years, Lisa Kristofferson, their children Jesse, Jody, Johnny, and Blake, and daughter Kelly Marie. He also leaves behind daughter Casey, son Kris, and daughter Tracy from his previous marriage to Frances Beer, as well as seven grandchildren. “We’re incredibly grateful for the time we had with him,” the family stated. “Thank you for your love and support over the years. When you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down on us all.”