Celebrity

‘Another legend waves goodbye’ following the passing of singer-songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson

Matthew Hart
Sep 30, 2024
As fans and colleagues learned of Kristofferson's passing, a sea of tributes soon emerged, each one celebrating his extraordinary contributions to both the music and film industries. Source: AP PHOTO.

The entertainment community has sadly bid farewell to another one of its own following the passing of “legendary” singer-songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson at the age of 88.

The country music superstar and A-list Hollywood actor passed away on Saturday, September 28 at his home in Hawaii, according to a statement released by his family.

“It is with a heavy heart that we share the news our husband/father/grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 28 at home,” they wrote.

“We’re all so blessed for our time with him. Thank you for loving him all these many years, and when you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all.

“The family asks for privacy during this time.”

Born on June 22, 1936, Kristofferson demonstrated an early interest in literature and the arts. At Pomona College in California, he excelled academically, earning a Rhodes Scholarship to study poetry at the University of Oxford.

In 1960, Kristofferson joined the U.S. Army as a Ranger, where he developed his skills as a helicopter pilot while stationed in West Germany. His literary background ignited a passion for songwriting, prompting him to form a band during his military service. After completing his tour, he made the decision to turn down a teaching position at West Point, opting instead to pursue his dreams of a music career in Nashville. There he found his big break with the help of country legend Johnny Cash, who offered his mentorship and support.

Simultaneously, Kristofferson’s film career was beginning to get off the ground with a small role in The Last Movie (1971), but it was his portrayal of Billy the Kid in Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973) that showcased his acting prowess. He gained further acclaim in A Star Is Born (1976) alongside Barbra Streisand, a performance that earned him a Golden Globe and solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood.

In the 1980s, he formed the supergroup the Highwaymen with fellow country icons Johnny Cash, Waylon Jennings, and Willie Nelson. Their collaboration produced the chart-topping album Highwayman in 1985. Kristofferson continued to act and received critical acclaim for his role as a corrupt sheriff in Lone Star (1996), which reignited his acting career and led to appearances in a variety of films, including the Blade series, Payback (1999), and Planet of the Apes (2001).

Later in his career, Kristofferson released several celebrated albums, including This Old Road (2006) and Closer to the Bone (2009). He was honoured with numerous accolades throughout his career, including induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1985 and the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004.

As fans and colleagues learned of Kristofferson’s passing, a sea of tributes soon emerged, each one celebrating his extraordinary contributions to both the music and film industries.

Kristofferson is survived by his wife, Lisa; his children Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, John, Kelly, and Blake; as well as seven grandchildren.

-with AP.

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