Kris Kristofferson, the legendary country music singer-songwriter and acclaimed actor, has died at the age of 88. He passed away peacefully at his home in Maui on September 28, surrounded by family, according to PEOPLE and a representative for the family.

In a statement, Kristofferson’s family shared their gratitude and remembrance:
“It is with a heavy heart that we announce our husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully at home. We are grateful for the time we had with him. When you see a rainbow, know he’s smiling down at us.”

Born on June 22, 1936, in Brownsville, Texas, Kristofferson was raised in a military family and distinguished himself early through academic excellence. He earned a prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University, where his passion for literature and music took deeper shape. After completing his studies, he joined the U.S. Army and served as a helicopter pilot before making the life-changing decision to pursue songwriting.

In the late 1960s, Kristofferson moved to Nashville, where he faced financial hardship while working various jobs, including as a janitor at Columbia Records. His perseverance paid off in 1970 when his compositions—“Me and Bobby McGee,” “Sunday Mornin’ Comin’ Down,” and “For the Good Times”—became major hits, recorded by artists such as Janis Joplin and Johnny Cash.

Kristofferson later emerged as a successful performer in his own right and became a defining figure of the outlaw country movement. Alongside Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, and Johnny Cash, he formed the supergroup The Highwaymen, leaving a lasting mark on American music history.

Beyond music, Kristofferson built an impressive acting career, starring in films including A Star Is Born, for which he won a Golden Globe, as well as Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid and Convoy. He officially retired from public life in 2021.

Kris Kristofferson leaves behind a legacy defined by poetic songwriting, artistic integrity, and an enduring influence on both music and film.