Barbra Streisand has shared a heartfelt tribute to her A star is born co-star Kris Kristofferson, who died on September 28 at the age of 88.

Reflecting on their friendship and professional partnership, Streisand spoke about the qualities that made Kristofferson not only a talented artist, but also a deeply respected figure in both music and film.

“The first time I saw Kris perform at the Troubadour club in LA, I knew he was something special,” Streisand wrote on social media. “Barefoot and strumming his guitar, he seemed like the perfect choice for a script I was developing, which ended up being a script A star is born.”

Their collaboration on the 1976 version of A star is born became one of the most iconic moments of both their careers. Streisand stars as Esther Hoffman, an aspiring singer whose career soars as her lover, played by Kristofferson, spirals into self-destruction. Kristofferson’s portrayal of troubled rock star John Norman Howard earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor, while Streisand’s performance made her a powerhouse in film and music.

In the film, the duo performed ‘Evergreen’, the love theme that Streisand himself had written for the film. The song went on to win an Academy Award for Best Original Song and became a hallmark of their collaboration. Streisand fondly recalled the magic of their musical partnership: “In the film, Kris and I sang the song I had written for the film’s main love theme, ‘Evergreen.'”

Their on-screen chemistry translated into a genuine friendship that went beyond the film’s success. Streisand reminisced about a memorable moment from her 2019 concert in London’s Hyde Park, where she invited Kristofferson to join her on stage.

“For my last concert in 2019 in London’s Hyde Park, I asked Kris to come on stage with me to share 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 to see him receive the recognition and love he so richly deserved,” she said.

Their collaboration on A star is born not only marked a major moment in cinema, but saw Kristofferson’s transition from country music star to critically acclaimed actor.

By the time he took on the role of John Norman Howard, Kristofferson was already an established figure in the country music scene, with classics like “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 gave the film depth that made it an enduring classic.

Streisand concluded with a message of condolence for Kristofferson’s family, especially his wife of 40 years, Lisa. “My thoughts go out to Kris’ wife, Lisa, who I know supported him in every way,” she wrote.

Kristofferson’s career saw him secure 19 entries on the Billboard 200, including No. 1 A star is born soundtrack alongside Streisand. He also claimed three No. 1 albums on the Top Country Albums chart, including Jesus was a Capricorn And Full moon with Rita Coolidge. His songwriting became legendary, with hits such as “Me and Bobby McGee” (No. 1 for Janis Joplin), “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down” (No. 1 for Johnny Cash), “For the Good Times” (No. 1 for Ray Price) and “Help Me Make It Through the Night” (No. 1 for Sammi Smith).

Read Barbra Streisand’s tribute to Kris Kristofferson below.