Richard 'Kinky' Friedman dies at 79

AUSTIN (KXAN) — Richard Samet “Kinky” Friedman, a musician, writer and University of Texas at Austin alumni, has died, according to a post made on his official X page. Friedman was 79 years old.

“Kinky Friedman stepped on a rainbow at his beloved Echo Hill surrounded by family & friends. Kinkster endured tremendous pain & unthinkable loss in recent years but he never lost his fighting spirit and quick wit. Kinky will live on as his books are read and his songs are sung,” the social media post said.

Friedman graduated from Austin High School in 1962 and earned a Psychology degree from UT in 1966.

In 2006, Friedman also ran as an independent candidate in the election for the office of Governor of Texas.