According to a statement released by his family, legendary country singer and actor Kris Kristofferson, known for his role in the 1976 film A Star Is Born, has passed away at the age of 88.
The statement shared that Kristofferson passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday. The family expressed how fortunate they felt to have spent time with him but did not disclose the cause of death. They also left a heartfelt message for fans: “When you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us all,” seemingly referencing his song “Here Comes That Rainbow Again.”
Kristofferson first made his mark in the early 1970s as a songwriter, penning hits for artists like Johnny Cash, Ray Price, and Janis Joplin. He soon transitioned to releasing his own music, starting with his debut album Kristofferson in 1970. In 1972, his album Jesus Was a Capricorn featured the song “Why Me,” which became his first number-one country hit.
Among his other notable songs are “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” “The Silver Tongued Devil and I,” and “Lover Please.” A four-time Grammy winner, Kristofferson was also a member of the country supergroup The Highwaymen, alongside Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, and Johnny Cash.
In addition to his music, Kristofferson had a successful acting career, most famously starring in A Star Is Born alongside Barbra Streisand, where he portrayed John Norman Howard, a fading superstar. The film was later remade with Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga.
Kristofferson is survived by his wife Lisa and his children Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, John, Kelly, and Blake.