Kris Kristofferson has officially retired. A report from Music Row regarding his estate says the actor and singer-songwriter permanently stepped away from music in 2020.

Morris Higham Management (MHM) now serves as management representation for Kristofferson's estate. The legend's son, John Kristofferson was left to manage the family's businesses including KK Records, Kristofferson's indie record label. Tamara Saviano, a longtime friend, and colleague of Kristofferson will continue her work as public relations director.

"It’s been amazing to dig in to my dad’s catalog and history with this seasoned group of professionals. MHM and Tamara are experts on everything from old Nashville to the up and comers, and I can’t imagine a better partnership to bring the full depth of his songwriting to a new generation. The name has always been synonymous with songwriting as an art, and we’re excited to reintroduce his work to new and old fans alike," John Kristofferson said in a statement. "We have many exciting projects in the works and I look forward to getting them out into the world."

Although Kristofferson "officially retired in 2020," this report is the first time that the general public is hearing the news.

Kristofferson's songwriting career in country music really took off after Roger Miller took his song, "Me And Bobby McGee" to No. 12 in 1969. The following year, he earned two No. 1 hits including "For The Good Times" with Ray Price and "Sunday Morning Coming Down" with Johnny Cash.

As a recording artist himself, Kristofferson also saw great success. In 1973 he earned a No. 1 for the gospel-influences "Why Me" followed by 1985's "Highwayman," which is the signature song of the supergroup featuring Kristofferson, Cash, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings.

In addition to his music career, Kristofferson also saw success as an actor. He is most well known for his performances in films like Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974) and A Star is Born (1976). He won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in A Star Is Born in 1977.

In 2004, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and, in 2014, was honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. Kristofferson will celebrate his 85th birthday on June 22, 2021.

See more on Kristofferson's life and career here.

Photo: Getty Images

Bob Pickett

About Bob Pickett