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Kris Kristofferson, a songwriting legend and actor, left an indelible mark on the world not just through his music, but also through his personal life, which was filled with significant relationships and a large family.
When he married his third wife, Lisa Meyers, in 1983, it marked the beginning of a long-lasting union that spanned over 40 years and produced five children.
Together, they navigated the highs and lows of his career and hisbattlewith memory loss, including a diagnosis that would surprise many.
Kristofferson passed away at 88 in his Maui home on September 28, but his legacy in both the music world and his family endures.
As tributes poured in from country music royalty likeReba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Miranda Lambert, fans began reflecting on his colorful personal history.
From a notorious womanizer to a devoted family man, here’s an in-depth look at Kris Kristofferson’s relationships, children, and his journey with his wife Lisa Meyers.
A Journey Through Kris Kristofferson’s Three Marriages
Kris Kristofferson wasn’t a stranger to marriage. Before finding his lifelong partner in Lisa Meyers, he experienced two tumultuous marriages that ultimately ended in divorce.
Let’s take a look at each chapter of his relationship history.
High School Sweetheart, Fran Beer
Kristofferson’s first marriage was toFran Beer, his high school sweetheart. Their relationship began during their younger years and brought two children into the world.
Fran moved with Kris to Nashville as he pursued his budding music career. However, their relationship struggled under the pressures of fame and his growing music commitments. After seven years of marriage, they divorced in 1969.
Tracy Kristoffersonwas born on January 9, 1962. Now 62, Tracy attended Stanford University and briefly pursued an acting career. Although she has kept a relatively low profile, she shares one child with an ex-husband.
Kris Kristofferson Jr.was born on January 20, 1968, and has maintained a private life away from the limelight. Not much is known about him, as he has chosen a quieter path compared to some of his siblings.
Rocky Romance: Rita Coolidge
Following his split from Fran, Kristofferson’s second marriage was to singer Rita Coolidge, whom he married in 1973.
The couple enjoyed commercial success with multiple albums, but their relationship was far from stable. Rumors of infidelity—most notably with hisA Star Is Bornco-star Barbra Streisand—circulated throughout their marriage, although these were never officially confirmed.
The pressures of fame and their issues led to a rocky seven-yearmarriagethat ended in divorce in 1980. Their child,Casey Kristoffersonwas born on March 21, 1974.
Unlike her father, Casey chose a dance career, focusing on ballet. Now 50 years old, she later transitioned into music, forming a band and recording an album in 2019. She also gifted Kris with three grandchildren.
The Enduring Love of Kris Kristofferson and Lisa Meyer
In 1982, fate brought Kris Kristofferson and Lisa Meyers together at a gym, where he cheekily asked to borrow a piece of equipment.
This seemingly casual encounter would lead to the longest and most fulfilling relationship of his life.
Kris, having recently quit drinking and pledged to be more present for his children, wasn’t immediately looking for a relationship. But love prevailed, and the couple married in 1983.
Together, they had five children and built a life centered around family. Lisa became Kris’ rock, helping him through numerous challenges, including his misdiagnosed battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Doctors later discovered that Kris had Lyme disease, and his health journey became a story of resilience and determination.
The Kristofferson-Meyers Children
Jesse Kristoffersonwas born in October 1983. Jesse pursued acting, appearing in films likePlanet of the Apesand the TV seriesDays of Our Lives.
Jody Kristoffersonwas born in 1985 and took an unconventional route by becoming a professional wrestler under the name Jody Reese. He later adopted the stage name Garrett Dylan in WWE.
Johnny Kristoffersonarrived in 1988 and followed a more traditional career path, becoming a lawyer. Today, he runs the family business.
Kelly Kristoffersonwas born in 1990. Like her father, she embraced the arts and became an actress and singer.
Blake Kristoffersonwas born in 1994. He has opted for a more private life, choosing to focus on academics and following in his mother’s footsteps by attending Pepperdine University.
For over four decades, Lisa Meyers stood by Kris’ side, supporting him through his highs, lows, and health struggles.
Her dedication helped him navigate his later years, and she was with him in Maui when he passed away.
Kris Kristofferson’s love life wasn’t limited to his marriages. He was also romantically linked to several famous women, creating tabloid buzz throughout the 1970s.
Barbra Streisand: A Complicated On-Screen Romance
One of Kristofferson’s most well-known relationships was with hisA Star Is Bornco-star, Barbra Streisand.
The two had a briefromanticfling in 1970, but by the time they reunited for the film in 1976, their relationship was fraught with arguments, adding tension to their on-screen chemistry.
Despite the ups and downs, their connection became one of the most memorable in Kristofferson’s love life.
Around the same time, Kristofferson also dated Janis Joplin, the iconic rock star known for her intense lifestyle.
Joplin, who struggled with heroin addiction, and Kristofferson, who was battling alcoholism, had a short but memorable relationship.
When Joplin tragically passed away, she had just recorded Kristofferson’s song “Me and Bobby McGee.” Hearing her rendition moved him deeply.
Jane Fonda: Another Rumored Romance
There were also rumors that Kris had a relationship withJane Fonda, though these were never confirmed.
Kristofferson’s magnetic personality often led to romantic speculation, especially when he was paired with high-profile actresses in films.
Wife
Marriage Duration
Children
Notable Info
Fran Beer
1960 – 1969
Tracy, Kris Kristofferson Jr.
High school sweetheart; moved to Nashville with him
Rita Coolidge
1973 – 1980
Casey Kristofferson
Produced albums together; rocky relationship marked by infidelity rumors
Lisa Meyers
1983 – 2023
Jesse, Jody, Johnny, Kelly, Blake
Met at a gym; remained married for 40+ years; fought Kris’ misdiagnosed Alzheimer’s together
Table: Kris Kristofferson’s Relationships and Children
Conclusion
Kris Kristofferson lived a life filled with passion, love, and music. His legacy as a singer-songwriter is unmatched, but his personal life adds another layer of depth to his story.
From his relationships with iconic women like Barbra Streisand and Janis Joplin to his devotion to his wife, Lisa Meyers, and their children, Kristofferson was as complex and multifaceted off-stage as he was on.
As we remember Kris Kristofferson’s incredible life and career, it’s clear that his impact will be felt for generations to come—both through his timeless music and the family that carries on his name.
From the Archives: A Look Back at the Legendary Kris Kristofferson
Last Updated: October 2, 2024
