Legendary country songwriter and actor Kris Kristofferson built a massive musical and cinematic legacy, but his most enduring personal project was his large family. Kris Kristofferson children total eight in all, born across three different marriages. While the highwayman spent decades writing anthems like "Me and Bobby McGee" and starring in Hollywood Westerns, his children carved out diverse paths spanning indie music, professional wrestling, law, acting, and private corporate careers.
Understanding this blended family tree reveals a side of the artist away from the stage lights. Here is the complete breakdown of Kris Kristofferson's eight children, who they are, and what they do.
The First Marriage: Tracy and Kris Jr.
Kris married his high school sweetheart, Fran Beer, in 1960. During this first chapter of his life, before he blew up Nashville songwriting circles, they welcomed two children.
Tracy Kristofferson
Born on January 9, 1962, Tracy is Kris's oldest daughter. She graduated from Stanford University and built a career in the entertainment industry as an actress and producer. Her credits include independent film projects like Trouble in Mind and A Place to Grow. She keeps a relatively low profile today, maintaining the intellectual and creative rigor fostered during her academic years.
Kris Kristofferson Jr.
Born in 1968, Kris Jr. stands as the most private member of the family. Unlike his siblings who pursued public-facing careers in sports or entertainment, he chose to stay entirely out of the media spotlight. Very few public records detail his professional life, though he shares his father's historic name.
The Second Marriage: Casey Kristofferson
Following his divorce from Fran Beer, Kris married acclaimed recording artist Rita Coolidge in 1973. Their marriage combined two major forces of 1970s counterculture and music.
Casey Kristofferson
Born in 1974, Casey is the sole child born to Kris and Rita Coolidge. Inheriting the vocal talents of both parents, Casey fronted her own musical unit, the Casey Kristofferson Band, blending southern rock and outlaw country influences. She frequently honors her roots by performing live and keeping her parents' musical traditions alive on modern stages.
The Third Marriage: Jesse, Jody, Johnny, Kelly Marie, and Blake
In 1983, Kris married attorney Lisa Meyers. This union lasted more than four decades until Kris's passing in September 2024. Together, they raised five children, rounding out his family of eight.
Jesse Kristofferson
Born on October 7, 1983, Jesse is the oldest son from the marriage with Lisa. He inherited his father's screen presence, landing acting roles in mainstream television and film projects, including appearances in the Melrose Place reboot and the soap opera Days of Our Lives.
Jody Kristofferson
Born on May 21, 1985, Jody chose an entirely unexpected direction away from folk guitars and acoustic ballads. He stepped into the ring as a professional wrestler. Working under developmental contracts and independent promotions, he wrestled under the ring name Garrett Dylan during his stints with WWE's developmental territories before retiring from active competition.
Johnny Kristofferson
Born in 1988, Johnny attended Pepperdine University—the same alma mater as his mother. Rather than chasing Hollywood fame or touring the country, Johnny pursued a legal career. He works as a California-based attorney, often managing practical and business affairs connected to the family's extensive artistic estate.
Kelly Marie Kristofferson
Born in 1990, Kelly Marie inherited deep musical and theatrical instincts. As a singer, multi-instrumentalist, and actress, she has performed alongside her father on festival stages and acted in independent cinema projects such as Traded.
Blake Kristofferson
Born in 1994, Blake is the youngest of the eight children. Like his older brother Kris Jr., Blake maintains a private life away from tabloid journalism. He graduated from Pepperdine University and focuses on non-entertainment business and professional sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many total children did Kris Kristofferson have?
Kris Kristofferson had eight children in total: two with his first wife Fran Beer, one with his second wife Rita Coolidge, and five with his third wife Lisa Meyers.
Did any of Kris Kristofferson's children follow him into music?
Yes. Casey Kristofferson leads her own touring band, and Kelly Marie Kristofferson works as a professional singer and multi-instrumentalist, frequently performing acoustic sets.
Who is Kris Kristofferson's longest-surviving spouse?
Lisa Meyers remained married to Kris for over 41 years, supporting him through his career transitions and health battles until his death in 2024. Learn more about the artist's historical impact via the Country Music Hall of Fame.
