Cher’s newly released memoir unveils a series of stunning revelations about her controversial relationship with Sonny Bono and her remarkable journey through showbiz. The 78-year-old icon’s book, released Tuesday, November 19, offers an unflinching look at her life, from her tumultuous teenage years to her current romantic choices.
The Controversial Beginning
Cher, born Cheryl Sarkisian, was just 16 when she first met 27-year-old Sonny Bono at a coffee shop. “I lied,” the singer openly admits in a candid interview with CBS Sunday Morning. The age gap sparked immediate concern, particularly from her mother, Georgia Holt, who threatened legal action against Bono.
Their initial arrangement was unconventional—Cher moved in as Bono’s housekeeper, cooking and cleaning in exchange for rent. Despite Bono’s initial lack of attraction (“No, no… I don’t find you particularly attractive”), their relationship evolved into one of the most famous partnerships in entertainment history. I don’t find you particularly attractive,” he told her; their relationship evolved into one of the most famous partnerships in entertainment history.
A Marriage Built On Secrets
The memoir reveals their marriage wasn’t exactly what it seemed. Their widely publicized Tijuana wedding in 1964 was actually fake—they only legally married in 1969, rushing through a private ceremony with a justice of the peace to prevent their earlier deception from becoming public knowledge.
Bob Mackie, Cher’s longtime designer, created her iconic “Naked Dress” for a 1975 Time magazine cover, highlighting her evolution from Sonny’s sidekick to a fashion icon in her own right.
Musical Journey And Personal Growth
Despite their massive success with hits like “I Got You Babe” and “The Beat Goes On,” Cher maintains a surprisingly modest view of her musical talents. “I never kidded myself that what I did was great,” she writes, revealing she didn’t even particularly like some of her biggest hits, including “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves.”
From Poverty To Stardom
The star’s early life reads like a dramatic novel. Growing up in what she describes as “Dickensian” poverty, Cher changed schools more than 25 times. Her mother’s career as a small-time actress and multiple marriages meant their lives swung between wealth and hardship.
Modern Day Cher
Now at 78, Cher has completely reversed the age dynamic in her romantic life. She’s currently dating music executive Alexander “AE” Edwards, who is 40 years her junior. “When I was younger, boys my age did not like me,” she told the New York Times, adding with characteristic wit, “And then when I got older, I didn’t like men my age.”
Legacy And Impact
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee’s story serves as a testament to resilience and reinvention. From her early days as a teenage performer to becoming an Oscar-winning actress and pop culture icon, Cher’s journey exemplifies the evolution of American entertainment over six decades.
This memoir, covering just the first half of her life until 1980, promises a second volume next March, ensuring that fans will get even more insights into the life of this remarkable performer who has continuously defied expectations and redefined success on her own terms.
The publication of these revelations coincides with Cher’s continued influence on popular culture, proving that even at 78, she remains as relevant and fascinating as ever. Her story serves as both a cautionary tale about the entertainment industry’s darker sides and an inspiring narrative of perseverance and self-discovery.
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