Barbra Streisand Honors Kris Kristofferson: ‘I Knew He Was Something Special
Barbra Streisand paid a heartfelt tribute to her *A Star Is Born* co-star Kris Kristofferson, who passed away at 88 on Sept. 28. Reflecting on their friendship and professional collaboration, Streisand praised Kristofferson not only for his immense talent but for the deep respect he earned in both music and film.
“The first time I saw Kris performing at the Troubadour in L.A., barefoot and strumming his guitar, I knew he was something special,” Streisand shared on social media. “He seemed like the perfect fit for the script I was developing, which eventually became *A Star Is Born*.”
Their 1976 collaboration on the film became a pivotal moment in both of their careers. Streisand played aspiring singer Esther Hoffman, whose career rises as her lover, portrayed by Kristofferson, spirals into self-destruction. Kristofferson’s portrayal of the troubled rock star John Norman Howard earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor, while Streisand’s performance solidified her status as a powerhouse in both music and film.
The duo also performed “Evergreen,” the movie’s love theme written by Streisand, which won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. “In the movie, Kris and I sang the song I’d written for the love theme, ‘Evergreen,’” Streisand recalled, highlighting the magic of their musical partnership.
Their on-screen chemistry blossomed into a genuine friendship, which endured long after the film’s success. Streisand shared a fond memory from her 2019 concert in London’s Hyde Park, where she invited Kristofferson on stage to sing “Lost Inside of You,” their duet from *A Star Is Born*. “He was as charming as ever, and the audience showered him with love and applause. It was a joy seeing him receive the recognition he so richly deserved,” she wrote.
By the time Kristofferson took on the role in *A Star Is Born*, he had already made his mark in country music, having written hits like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” His rugged charm and authentic performance opposite Streisand brought a lasting depth to the film, helping it become a timeless classic.
Streisand concluded her tribute by extending her condolences to Kristofferson’s family, especially his wife of 40 years, Lisa. “My thoughts are with Kris’ wife, Lisa, who supported him in every way possible,” she wrote.
Kristofferson’s legendary career spanned six decades, with numerous accolades in both music and film. He secured 19 entries on the Billboard 200, three No. 1 albums on the Top Country Albums chart, and wrote iconic songs for some of the biggest names in music. He was also inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2004.
Many stars have paid tribute to Kristofferson, including Dolly Parton, who called him “a great writer, actor, and friend,” and Reba McEntire, who described him as “a gentleman, kind soul, and a lover of words.”
Kristofferson is survived by his wife Lisa, eight children, and seven grandchildren. His impact on both music and film will be remembered for generations.
