Country Legend Kris Kristofferson Dies Surrounded by Family: Details
Movie star and country singer Kris Kristofferson died at the age of 88 on September 28, 2024, at his home in Maui.
“A Star Is Born” actor Kris Kristofferson has passed away as per his representative, who shared that he died peacefully surrounded by his family.
Kris Kristofferson performs live onstage during a concert at the Admiralspalast in Berlin, Germany, on June 10, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Kristofferson’s family penned in a statement, “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.”
Kris Kristofferson performs onstage at JONI 75: A Birthday Celebration Live in Los Angeles, California, on November 7, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
The family expressed their gratitude for the cherished moments they shared with Kristofferson, writing, “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.”
Kris Kristofferson attends “A Look Into the Life & Songs of Kris Kristofferson” on The Steps at WME in Nashville, Tennessee, on October 26, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Kristofferson’s wife, Lisa Meyers, along with his eight children and seven grandchildren are now mourning their loved one. The “Blade” actor was previously married to his first wife, Frances Beer, and together they welcomed their daughter, Tracy, in 1962, and son, Kris, in 1968.
Kris Kristofferson and Lisa Meyers at the 2007 CMT Music Awards, on April 16, 2007 | Source: Getty Images
With his second wife, Rita Coolidge, he welcomed a daughter, Casey, in 1974. Kristofferson also had five children with Meyers: Jesse, born in 1983, Jody in 1985, John in 1988, Kelly Marie in 1990, and Blake in 1994.
Kris Kristofferson attends the Medallion Ceremony to celebrate the 2017 hall of fame inductees at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville, Tennessee, on October 22, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Kris Kristofferson’s legacy continues to live on through his family and the countless contributions he made to music and film. Tributes have been pouring in from fans around the world, celebrating his remarkable career and the profound impact his work had on both the entertainment industry.
Kris Kristofferson during a concert performance, circa 1970 | Source: Getty Images
One fan noted, “Good seeing Kris Kristofferson. Love his music,” while another remarked, “Why didn’t someone put a coat on Kris that FIT him. ? He’s still themost handsome man ever was[sic].”
Kris Kristofferson and his family at a Medallion Ceremony from a Facebook post dated October 23, 2023 | Source: Facebook/kriskristofferson
A fan chimed in response, alluding to a health issue, “Sometimes loose clothing helps camouflage life-sustaining medical devices a person may require.”
Other fans shared thoughts on his look, with one saying, “Kris looks great. He would look even better without the beard. I don’t know why guys think facial hair enhances the appearance.”
Kristofferson wasn’t particularly concerned with his appearances, having disclosed what he believed to be the secret of life in Men’s Journal in 2017. He shared, “I had a list of rules I made up one time. It says: Tell the truth, sing with passion, work with laughter, and love with heart. Those are good to start with anyway.”
Kris Kristofferson attends “A Song Is Born” the 16th Annual GRAMMY Foundation Legacy Concert in Los Angeles, California, on January 23, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Kristofferson’s passion was evident in his work from the young age of 11 when he wrote his first song, “I Hate Your Ugly Face.” He grew up to become a talented songwriter whose prowess amazed many.
Kris Kristofferson poses for a portrait in London, England, on September 7, 1970 | Source: Getty Images
In a 1970 profile, The New York Times described Kristofferson as more of a poet than a musician, emphasizing that his focus was on interpreting his work rather than the quality of his voice.
Kris Kristofferson in the 1970s | Source: Getty Images
The publication noted that Kristofferson possessed a unique blend of straightforwardness and mysticism, transcending trivial biases. He appealed significantly to both academic audiences and intellectual circles, serving as a crucial connection between country, pop, and underground music.
Kris Kristofferson in Nashville, Tennessee in 1970 | Source: Getty Images
Throughout his successful and extensive career, Kristofferson earned many accolades. He bagged three Grammy Awards and a lifetime achievement recognition from the Recording Academy in 2014.
Kris Kristofferson accepts the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Special Merit Awards Ceremony in Los Angeles, California, on January 25, 2014 | Source: Getty Images
In 1985, he was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song for the film, “Songwriter,” and in 2004, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Kris Kristofferson introduces Country Music Hall of Fame Inductee George Strait in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 6, 2006 | Source: Getty Images
After releasing his last studio album, “The Cedar Creek Sessions,” in 2016, the country legend officially took a step back from music in 2021. At the time, he also revealed that Morris Higham Management would be taking care of his estate.
Kris Kristofferson performing at British Summer Time Hyde Park in London, England, on July 7, 2019 | Source: Getty Images
Morris Higham Management president and partner Clint Higham praised, “Kristofferson is the artist that every artist strives to be. He is an artist’s artist. If Mount Rushmore had a place for songwriters, Kris would be on it.”
Kris Kristofferson attends the Texas Medal of Arts Awards at The Bass Concert Hall in Austin, Texas, on February 22, 2017 | Source: Getty Images
Now, Kristofferson’s impact is sure to last, with fans contemplating the lasting quality of his artistry and the distinctive voice he infused into each of his songs and performances.
