Kris Kristofferson, the iconic singer-songwriter and actor, passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on September 28, leaving behind a loving family. Known for hits like “Me and Bobby McGee” and a memorable role in A Star Is Born, Kristofferson had a storied career. However, his most cherished role was being a father to his eight children: Tracy, Kris Jr., Casey, Jesse, Jody, Johnny, Kelly Marie, and Blake. As the world reflects on his legacy, it’s worth taking a closer look at his children, who carry forward his talent, passion, and spirit in their own ways.
Tracy Kristofferson, 62
The eldest of Kris’s children, Tracy, was born on January 9, 1962, from his first marriage to high school sweetheart Frances Beer. Tracy, like her father, dabbled in the entertainment industry, pursuing a career in acting and producing. She appeared in films like Trouble in Mind (1985) and A Place to Grow (1995), showcasing her talent. Beyond her career, Tracy made headlines in the 1980s after a near-fatal motorcycle accident with Olympic gold medalist Eric Heiden. Her father rushed to her side, halting his concert tour in Sweden, emphasizing the deep love and bond they shared. Tracy later married actor Richard Tyson, with whom she shares one child, though the couple divorced in 2017.
Kris Kristofferson Jr., 56
Born on January 20, 1968, Kris Jr. is the second child from Kristofferson’s marriage to Frances. Despite inheriting his father’s famous name, Kris Jr. has chosen to live a relatively private life, avoiding the spotlight that naturally follows the Kristofferson family. While little is known about his personal pursuits, his decision to lead a more reserved life contrasts with his father’s legendary fame in the entertainment industry.
Casey Kristofferson, 50
Born on March 21, 1974, Casey is the only child from Kris’s marriage to Rita Coolidge, the renowned ’70s singer. Casey inherited her parents’ artistic inclinations but initially avoided the spotlight. Instead, she pursued ballet and opened a dance school in North Carolina before turning to music later in life. In 2019, Casey formed the Casey Kristofferson Band, where she combined her upbringing in music with her punk and classical ballet influences. Casey shares three daughters with her former husband, balancing motherhood with her growing musical career.
Jesse Kristofferson, 40
Born on October 7, 1983, Jesse is Kris’s first child with his third wife, Lisa Meyers. Jesse followed in his father’s acting footsteps, appearing in films such as Planet of the Apes (2001) and the TV series Gigantic (2010). While Jesse’s time in Hollywood was brief, his stint on Days of Our Lives as Neil Hultgrin marked a notable moment in his acting career. However, Jesse eventually stepped away from the limelight and now lives a quieter life, away from the entertainment industry.
Jody Kristofferson, 39
Jody was born on May 21, 1985, and unlike some of his siblings, pursued a unique career path in professional wrestling. Using the stage name Jody Reese, he performed in WWE, where his physical prowess and natural charisma stood out. Despite his initial success, Jody eventually retired from wrestling, leaving behind a sport that requires the same stage presence his father was known for, albeit in a different arena.
Johnny Kristofferson, 36
Born in 1988, Johnny is the third son Kris shared with Lisa Meyers. Instead of entering the music or acting industries like his siblings, Johnny pursued a career in law, earning his degree from Pepperdine University, which happens to be his mother’s alma mater as well. Johnny later took over managing the family’s business after Kris retired from music in 2021. His leadership in preserving and promoting his father’s musical legacy demonstrates his commitment to keeping the Kristofferson name alive in the industry.
Kelly Marie Kristofferson, 33
Born on November 1, 1990, Kelly Marie is the only daughter Kris had with Lisa Meyers. Kelly is both an actress and musician, carving out a name for herself in the entertainment world. She starred in the 2016 film Traded and performed alongside her father at various musical events. Kelly also showcased her singing talent in a father-daughter performance at the Magnolia Fest in Florida, where they sang “The Wonder.” In 2018, Kelly married painter Aydin Hamami, further expanding the artistic talents within the Kristofferson family.
Blake Kristofferson, 30
Blake, the youngest of Kris and Lisa’s children, was born on July 27, 1994. Following in his older brother Johnny’s footsteps, Blake attended Pepperdine University. Despite his father’s fame and his siblings’ various public endeavors, Blake has largely stayed out of the limelight, choosing to live a more private life.
Kris Kristofferson’s legacy extends far beyond his iconic contributions to music and film. His eight children each reflect different aspects of their father’s passion, creativity, and resilience, while also carving their own unique paths in life. From Tracy’s work in film to Kelly Marie’s performances on stage with her father, and Johnny’s role in preserving the Kristofferson musical legacy, his children ensure that the spirit of Kris Kristofferson lives on. As the family mourns their loss, they will undoubtedly continue to honor his memory through their personal and professional endeavors.
