‘He was something special’: Barbra Streisand delivers moving tribute to the late Kris Kristofferson

As the world comes to terms with the loss of legendary country music superstar and A-list Hollywood actor Kris Kristofferson, fellow superstar Barbra Streisand has delivered a touching tribute to her A Star Is Born co-star.

Kristofferson passed away on Saturday, September 28 at his home in Hawaii at the age of 88, 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.”

Joining the thousands who paid tribute, Streisand took to social media to offer her condolences and reflect on their friendship and the “charming” man Kristofferson was.

“The first time I saw Kris performing at the Troubadour club in L.A. I knew he was something special. Barefoot and strumming his guitar, he seemed like the perfect choice for a script I was developing, which eventually became A Star Is Born,” she began.

“In the movie, Kris and I sang the song I’d written for the film’s main love theme, “Evergreen.”

“For my latest concert in 2019 at London’s Hyde Park, I asked Kris to join me on-stage to sing our other A Star Is Born duet, “Lost Inside Of You.” He was as charming as ever, and the audience showered him with applause. It was a joy seeing him receive the recognition and love he so richly deserved.

“My thoughts go to Kris’ wife, Lisa who I know supported him in every way possible.”

 

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Moved by her kind words, fans offered their praise and condolences to Streisand while reflecting on the “extraordinary talent” of Kristofferson.

“Beautifully said, so sorry for your loss. Your scenes together in the movie “A Star is Born” were epic,” one wrote.

“Kris was an extraordinary talent and such a kind and lovely human being. My heart is with Lisa. And my condolences go out to you.”

“So iconic, precious and beautiful! The two of you are everything!! Thank you for the inspiration. May Kris rest in blissful peace forever,” commented another.

“I’m sorry for your loss ❤️thought of you as soon as I heard the news.”

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 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.

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