logo
Getty images
Getty images

Inside the 'Bond' between Rita Coolidge and Her Ex-Husband Kris Kristofferson

Comfort Omovre
Jun 30, 2019
09:53 A.M.

Rita Coolidge and Kris Kristofferson have a bond that spans over three decades, but it was not enough to keep them together.

Advertisement

In the ‘70s two celebrities made the headlines for their talent and tumultuous relationship — Rita Coolidge and Kris Kristofferson.

LOVE AT FIRST FLIGHT

They met while on a flight from Los Angeles to Memphis and hit things off immediately. According to Coolidge, it was “Love at first flight,” and on that first day, they knew they would end up together, and picked out their first child’s name.

Advertisement

However, the love which started off looking like a fairytale made in heaven soon became a nightmare, as Kristofferson began drinking heavily and womanizing.

Rita Coolidge performs during the 2019 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 50th Anniversary | Photo: Getty Images

Rita Coolidge performs during the 2019 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival 50th Anniversary | Photo: Getty Images

When Coolidge could not take it anymore, she took their daughter, Casey with her, and left the marriage in 1980. Over three decades later, the “Higher Higher” singer told People that they still share a connection that goes beyond understanding.

The ‘70s rock star said despite the way their marriage ended, she and the man she won two Grammy Awards with share a bond that has not waned. The singer told the news outlet they both share inside jokes that nobody gets, and have remained close.

THEY BECAME BEST FRIENDS AFTER HIS SECOND MARRIAGE

Advertisement

Interestingly, things between the two were not always good. In a 2018 interview, Coolidge revealed that she became friends again with Kristofferson after he remarried to Lisa Kristofferson.

The backup singer for Eric Clapton’s “After Midnight” applauded Lisa for putting up with her ex for 36 years, describing her as the most tolerant, patient, and saintly woman she knows.

Kris Kristofferson and Lisa Meyers attend The Life & Songs of Kris Kristofferson at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee | Photo: Getty Images

Kris Kristofferson and Lisa Meyers attend The Life & Songs of Kris Kristofferson at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee | Photo: Getty Images

COOLIDGE CRIED FOR A YEAR BEFORE LEAVING

In Coolidge’s 2016 memoir “Delta Lady” she revealed the other factors that led to the end of her marriage with the “A Star is Born” actor.

The “Anytime…Anywhere” singer said during the eight years she spent with Kristofferson, he abused her emotionally by belittling her talent and career.

Advertisement

The award-winning singer also revealed that her ex-husband once hit her during a drunken rage, but it was the first and last time he did.

The ‘70s star recalled crying every day during the last year they spent together, and when her plea for marriage counselling and therapy fell on deaf ears, she knew their marriage was over.

Kristofferson after losing Coolidge didn’t get his act together until he saw his character on “A Star is Born” drinking himself into oblivion.

The actor once said he realized he was staring at a reflection of himself and decided to stop drinking. Now, Coolidge and Kristofferson are both in their seventies, and the bond between them is still as strong as ever.

Advertisement
info
Please fill in your e-mail so we can share with you our top stories!
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy
Advertisement
Related posts

Matthew Perry's On-Screen Wife Courteney Cox Speaks Out More than 2 Weeks after His Tragic Death

November 15, 2023

Marlo Thomas & Phil Donahue Shared How Their Marriage Lasted More than 45 Years despite the 'Biggest Challenges'

December 04, 2023

Vince Neil's 4 Wives: More about Beth Lynn, Sharise Ruddel, Heidi Mark & Lia Gerardini

November 14, 2023

Francine Valli Was in a Relationship with Richie Ramone When She Died

November 25, 2023

Jimmy Deen Is Paula Deen's First Husband of 27 Years — More About Their Marriage

January 18, 2024

Marilyn Monroe Had No Clue She Had an Older Sister — Why She Only Met Long-Lost Sibling at 18

January 25, 2024

Bob Hope Was Either Bigamist or Lied About His 69-Years Marriage – Inside His Private Life

January 17, 2024

Jon Bon Jovi Has Remained in Love with His Wife for 4 Decades – How Does She Look Now?

February 01, 2024

Jon Bon Jovi Has Remained in Love with His Wife for 4 Decades – How Does She Look Now?

January 30, 2024

Jennifer Aniston Shares Private Words from Matthew Perry before His Death: 'I'll Keep Them Forever'

November 16, 2023

Cara Whitney Is a Book Author & Mom of Larry the Cable Guy's Two Kids

December 01, 2023

‘West Side Story’ Star Chita Rivera Dies Just Days after Birthday - Her Grieving Daughter Speaks Out

January 31, 2024

Elizabeth Ashley Wharton Is a Bassist – Facts about Vince Neil's Daughter

December 01, 2023

People Share Their Worst Airline Travel Stories

December 26, 2023