Singer-songwriter Kris Kristofferson, renowned for his moving lyrics and ruggedly handsome appearance, has passed away at the age of 88. Kristofferson’s contributions to country music have solidified his status as a legend in the industry, while his foray into Hollywood during the 1970s further elevated his fame as a movie star.
Kristofferson’s passing occurred at his residence in Maui, Hawaii, on Saturday, as confirmed by a representative for the late singer-songwriter. No specific cause of death has been disclosed.
The Kristofferson family shared the heartbreaking news that their beloved husband/father/grandfather, Kris Kristofferson, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, September 28.
In their statement, they expressed gratitude for the time they had with him and thanked everyone for their love and support throughout the years. They also mentioned that whenever they see a rainbow, they feel comforted, knowing that Kris is watching over them with a smile.
Kris Kristofferson’s extensive repertoire is filled with timeless classics that have been popularized by various artists. Some notable examples include Janis Joplin’s rendition of “Me and Bobby McGee,” Ray Price’s version of “For the Good Times,” Johnny Cash’s Billboard country hit “Sunday Morning Comin’ Down,” Roger Miller’s performance of “Lovin’ Her Was Easier (Than Anything I’ll Ever Do Again),” Sammi Smith’s interpretation of “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” and Jerry Lee Lewis’ rendition of “Once More with Feeling,” which Kris Kristofferson co-wrote with Shel Silverstein.
According to Nelson in 2020, when discussing songwriters, the first name that comes to mind is Kristofferson, who Nelson refers to as “one of my oldest best friends.” Nelson further praises Kristofferson, stating that he has likely written more outstanding songs than anyone else.
In 1977, the talented college football player showcased his acting skills in the pro football comedy “Semi-Tough” alongside Burt Reynolds. He also portrayed a rebellious truck driver in director Sam Peckinpah’s road-action comedy “Convoy.”
Kristoffer Kristofferson, the oldest of three children, was born on June 22, 1936, in Brownsville, Texas. He grew up with a deep admiration for country superstar Hank Williams and started writing songs at the young age of 11.
Kristofferson’s military family eventually made their home in San Mateo, California, where the talented singer completed his education at San Mateo High School in 1954.
Following his graduation, he pursued higher studies at Pomona College in Claremont, California. Known for his prowess in the boxing ring, he became a sporting legend at the college, excelling in rugby and football.
Additionally, he served as the sports editor of the college paper, showcasing his diverse skills and interests.
After completing his Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, Kristofferson made the decision to delay his Army commitment. He was granted the opportunity to pursue his passion for literature as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, focusing specifically on British literature.
During this time, he married his high school sweetheart, Frances Beer, with whom he would later have two children. Following his studies, Kristofferson successfully graduated from Ranger School and went on to become a skilled helicopter pilot.
In 1965, instead of deploying to Vietnam with his unit, Capt. Kristofferson received a teaching appointment at West Point to instruct literature.
However, he made the decision to resign his commission in order to pursue his passion for songwriting in Nashville. Beginning his journey as a bartender and janitor at Columbia Recording Studios, he embarked on his path as an aspiring singer-songwriter.
Director Peckinpah catapulted Kristofferson into the realm of movie stardom in 1973 when he cast him as William H. Bonney in “Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid.” Kristofferson’s movie career reached new heights until it suffered a significant setback with his lead role in the infamous box-office disaster of 1980, the ill-fated epic “Heaven’s Gate.”
After being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2015, Kristofferson continued to perform music until his quiet retirement in 2020.
In 2004, Kristofferson expressed his desire for country music to be as proud of him as he was of being a part of it. He stated, “I wanted country music to be as proud of me as I was of being in country music.” Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledged that over the years, his wish had indeed come true.
Throughout his remarkable career, Kristofferson achieved numerous accolades. Notably, he was the recipient of three Grammy awards and his exceptional performance in “A Star Is Born” garnered him a prestigious Golden Globe in 1976.
Recognizing his immense contributions to the music industry, he was bestowed with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014.
In 2016, Kristofferson spoke to Rolling Stone about his struggles with memory loss, attributing it to Lyme disease, a condition he was diagnosed with earlier that year.
During Willie Nelson’s 90th birthday party concert at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, Kristofferson delivered his final performances. In an emotional stage appearance, a radiant Kristofferson teamed up with Roseanne Cash to perform his timeless hit, “Lovin’ Her Was Easier.” As the song concluded, both artists were overcome with tears, and the audience responded with thunderous applause.
Kristofferson’s legacy lives on through his loving family. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Meyers, and their eight children: Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, John, Kelly, and Blake. Additionally, he leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren.
Kris Kristofferson, the iconic singer-songwriter who transitioned into a successful Hollywood actor, has sadly passed away at the age of 88.
Source: USA Today