Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media Inc.
“His family expressed their gratitude, saying, ‘Thank you for loving him over the years, and when you see a rainbow, remember he’s smiling down on all of us.'”
Legendary country music singer, songwriter, and Hollywood star Kris Kristofferson has died at the age of 88. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully at his Maui home on Saturday.
In a statement to People, Kristofferson’s family shared, “With heavy hearts, we announce that our husband, father, and grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 28.”
“We feel incredibly fortunate for the time we had with him,” the family continued. “Thank you for loving him over the years. When you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down on all of us.”
Born in Texas in 1936, Kristofferson began his entertainment career after relocating to Tennessee in the 1960s, driven by his passion for songwriting. While working as a night janitor at Columbia Studios, he submitted his original songs, including hits like “For the Good Times” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.”
In a 2010 interview with Clash, Kristofferson expressed how deeply he connected with Nashville’s music community.
“Kris Kristofferson believed that creativity was a gift from God, and those who neglect it are destined for unhappiness. He often emphasized that a life of the mind allows the soul to speak, and through his work, he gave voice not only to his own soul but to ours as well. His legacy will continue to resonate,” shared Kyle Young in a tribute from the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Reflecting on his career, Kristofferson once said, “The way the old heroes helped out the new guys… it was a very soulful industry back then. I’m not sure if it’s still like that today, but moving to Nashville was without a doubt the best decision I ever made.”
Kris Kristofferson continued to write iconic songs, achieving widespread success with hits like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Help Me Make it Through the Night,” as noted by the Associated Press.
In a 1970 profile, The New York Times described Kristofferson as “a poet rather than a musician, more focused on interpretation than vocal perfection.” The article highlighted his unique appeal, saying, “He is both blunt and mystical, free from petty biases, and resonates with both campus and intellectual circles. He serves as a vital link between country, pop, and underground music.”
Kristofferson eventually ventured into Hollywood, starring in films such as Martin Scorsese’s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974) and A Star Is Born (1976), where he played alongside Barbra Streisand. Later, he appeared with Wesley Snipes in the 1998 Marvel film Blade, further expanding his legacy.
Following the news of Kris Kristofferson’s passing, tributes poured in from stars like Dolly Parton, Barbra Streisand, and others.
Dolly Parton expressed her sorrow, saying, “What a great loss. What a great writer. What a great actor. What a great friend. I will always love you, Dolly.”
Barbra Streisand remembered her A Star Is Born co-star fondly, calling him “something special.” She recalled, “Kris and I sang the love theme I wrote for the film, ‘Evergreen.’ During my 2019 Hyde Park concert in London, I invited Kris to join me on stage to sing ‘Lost Inside of You.’ He was as charming as ever, and the audience showered him with applause. It was a joy to see him receive the recognition and love he so deserved.”
Country singer Travis Tritt shared how Kristofferson had been “an inspiration to me,” and expressed his gratitude for getting to know him while filming Outlaw Justice in Spain in 1998. He extended his heartfelt condolences to Kristofferson’s wife, Lisa, and his family, friends, and fans.
Reba McEntire also paid tribute, calling Kristofferson “a gentleman, kind soul, and a lover of words. I’m so glad I got to meet him and be around him. One of my favorite people. Rest in peace, Kris.”
As People noted, Kristofferson is survived by his wife Lisa, eight children, and seven grandchildren.
