Barbra Streisand pays heartfelt tribute to her a star is born Co-star Kris Kristofferson died on September 28 at the age of 88.
Looking back on their friendship and professional partnership, Streisand spoke of the qualities that made Kristofferson not only a talented performer but a deeply respected figure in the music and film communities.
“The first time I saw Chris perform at the Troubadour Club in Los Angeles, I knew he was special,” Streisand wrote on social media. “Barefoot playing guitar, he seemed the perfect choice for the script I was developing, which ended up being a star is born”.
They collaborated on the 1976 version of a star is born became one of the most iconic moments of their careers. Streisand stars as Esther Hoffman, an aspiring singer whose career is booming while her lover (Kristofferson) spirals into self-destruction. Kristofferson’s portrayal of troubled rock star John Norman Howard earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor, and Streisand’s performance cemented her in both film and music.
In the film, the two performed “Evergreen,” the love theme song Streisand wrote for the film. The song went on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song and became emblematic of their collaboration. Streisand fondly recalls the magic of their musical collaboration: “In the movie, Chris and I sang the song I wrote for the movie’s love theme, ‘Evergreen.'”
Their on-screen chemistry translated into a true friendship that transcended the film’s success. Streisand recalled an unforgettable moment from her 2019 concert in London’s Hyde Park, where she invited Kristofferson to join her on stage.
“At my latest concert in London’s Hyde Park in 2019, I invited Kris to join me on stage to perform another of our songs a star is born Duet “Lost Within You”. He was as charming as ever and the audience gave him a standing ovation. It makes me happy to see him get the recognition and love he deserves,” she shared.
their cooperation a star is born Not only did it mark a significant moment in the film industry, but it saw Kristofferson’s transformation from country music star to critically acclaimed actor.
By the time Kristofferson took on the role of John Norman Howard, he was already well established in the country music industry, having written such classics as “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” His rugged charm made him a natural fit for the role, and his performance opposite Streisand brought a depth to the film that made it a timeless classic.
Streisand concluded by extending her sympathies to Kristofferson’s family, especially his wife of 40 years, Lisa. “I think of Chris’ wife, Lisa, and I know she supports him in every way possible,” she wrote.
Kristofferson’s career has landed him 19 hits on the Billboard 200, including a No. 1 a star is born Scored with Streisand. He has also earned three albums on the Top Country Albums chart, including Jesus is a Capricorn and full moon With Rita Coolidge. His songwriting became legendary, including “Me and Bobby McGee” (#1 for Janis Joplin), “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” (#1 for Johnny Cash), “For the Good Times” (#1) Waiting for hit songs.
Read Barbra Streisand’s tribute to Kris Kristofferson below.