Barbra Streisand shared a heartfelt tribute to her A star is born Co-star Kris Kristofferson, who died on September 28th 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.

“When I first saw Kris perform at the Troubadour club in LA, I knew he was special,” Streisand wrote on social media. “Barefoot and strumming his guitar, he seemed like the perfect choice for a script I was developing that eventually came to fruition A star is born.”

Their collaboration on the 1976 version of A star is born became one of the most iconic moments in both of their careers. Streisand played Esther Hoffman, an aspiring singer whose career skyrockets when 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 cemented her as a powerhouse in film and music.

In the film, the duo performed “Evergreen,” the love theme that Streisand himself wrote for the film. The song later won an Oscar 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 wrote for the film’s main love theme: ‘Evergreen’.”

Their on-screen chemistry led to a real friendship that lasted beyond the success of the film. Streisand recalled a memorable moment from her concert in London’s Hyde Park in 2019, 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 sing to our counterpart 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 shared.

Your collaboration on A star is born Not only did the film mark a significant moment in cinema, but it also marked Kristofferson’s transition from country star to acclaimed actor.

By the time he took on the role of John Norman Howard, Kristofferson was already established in the country music scene and had written classics like “Me and Bobby McGee” and “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down.” His gruff charm made him ideal for the role, and his performance alongside Streisand gave the film a depth that made it an enduring classic.

Streisand concluded with a message of sympathy for Kristofferson’s family, particularly his wife of 40 years, Lisa. “My thoughts are with Kris’ wife Lisa, who I know has supported him in every way possible,” she wrote.

Over the course of his career, Kristofferson secured 19 entries on the Billboard 200, including No. 1 A star is born Soundtrack alongside Streisand. He also secured 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.