“He Was Something Special”: Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton, and Others Honor Kris Kristofferson Following His Passing

Industry giants such as Barbara Streisand, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, and many others have paid heartfelt tributes to the legendary actor and country music icon Kris Kristofferson, who passed away at the age of 88.

The announcement of Kris Kristofferson’s passing was made by his family on Instagram on Sunday, September 29. The post included a black-and-white photograph of the beloved star along with the following message:

“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,” his family wrote in a statement via Instagram on Sunday, September 29. “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 poignant message concluded with a request for privacy as they mourn the loss of this country music legend.

Numerous prominent figures have come forward to honor Kristofferson’s legacy. Barbara Streisand, who starred alongside him in A Star Is Born, expressed her admiration for his exceptional talent.

“The first time I saw Kris performing at the Troubadour club in L.A., I knew he was something special,” she shared on Instagram. “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 further added:

“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.”

Streisand wrapped up her tribute with a special acknowledgment for Kris Kristofferson’s wife, Lisa, praising her unwavering support for her husband.

Another country music icon, Dolly Parton, took to Instagram to share her condolences for the late singer and actor:

“What a great loss/ What a great writer/ What a great actor/ What a great friend/ I will always love you, Dolly.”

Kristofferson and Parton collaborated on a cover of her classic song “Put It Off Until Tomorrow” in 1982.

More Celebrities Reacting to Kris Kristofferson’s Passing

Kris Kristofferson - Source: Getty (Photo by Su Ingle/David Reffern/Redferns/Getty Images) — Kris Kristofferson – Source: Getty (Photo by Su Ingle/David Reffern/Redferns/Getty Images)

Additional celebrities from various corners of the industry have expressed their sorrow over Kris Kristofferson’s death. Country music star Reba McEntire shared an old photograph with the iconic artist, stating:

“What a gentleman, kind soul, and a lover of words. I am so glad I got to meet him and be around him. One of my favorite people. Rest in peace, Kris.”

Reba McEntire mourns Kris Kristofferson's death (image via Instagram/@reba) — Reba McEntire mourns Kris Kristofferson’s death (image via Instagram/@reba)

American singer and songwriter LeAnn Rimes shared her memories of Kristofferson, calling him an “epic human with the biggest heart.”She posted a photo of herself with him and expressed:

“You will be so, so missed. Rest easy, my friend.”

Travis Tritt, Kristofferson’s co-star from Outlaw Justice, remembered him as an inspiration:

“Sad to hear of Kris Kristofferson’s passing. He was an inspiration to me and I was fortunate to get to know him on the set of ‘Outlaw Justice’ that we filmed in Spain in 1998,” Tritt wrote. “My heartfelt condolences go out to Kris’s wife Lisa and all of his family, friends and fans.”

Lee Greenwood reflected on Kristofferson’s multifaceted contributions in an emotional Facebook post, mentioning:

“Hard to believe my friend Kris Kristofferson has left us. He was successful in all areas of his life. A champion boxer, a world-class actor, a spectacular songwriter and singer, and a hero to everyone fortunate enough to know him.”

Greenwood reminisced about Kristofferson’s support during his win of the CMA Country Music Association Male Vocalist of the Year Award, sending his deepest sympathy to Kris’ family at the end of his note.

A Glimpse into Kris Kristofferson’s Illustrious Career

Kris Kristofferson with Twelve String Guitar - Source: Getty (Photo by Al Clayton/Getty Images). — Kris Kristofferson with Twelve String Guitar – Source: Getty (Photo by Al Clayton/Getty Images).

Kris Kristofferson began his journey as a janitor at Columbia Records after returning from military service post-college. He eventually emerged as one of the most celebrated country music icons of his generation.

Kristofferson released his debut album, Sunday Mornin’ Coming’ Down, in 1972. While leading a successful music career, he also ventured into acting, starring in films like Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974) before taking on the lead role in the 1976 remake of A Star Is Born alongside Barbara Streisand, for which he won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in 1977.

Throughout his career, Kristofferson garnered numerous awards in both music and acting, including three Grammy Awards and a lifetime achievement award from the Recording Academy in 2018. The celebrated musician also received an Oscar nomination for Best Original Song in 1985 for the film Songwriter and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004.

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