Cher's Full Biography
Cher, born Cherilyn Sarkisian, is an American singer, actress, and pop culture icon. She rose to fame in the 1960s as part of the musical duo Sonny & Cher, known for their hit song "I Got You Babe." Cher's unique vocal range and distinctive style have made her one of the most influential and enduring figures in the entertainment industry.
Early Life And Education
Cher was born on May 20, 1946, in El Centro, California, to John Sarkisian, an Armenian-American truck driver, and Georgia Holt, an aspiring actress and model. Cher's parents divorced when she was young, and she experienced a somewhat nomadic childhood, moving with her mother and younger sister, Georganne, to different cities.
Cher's mother, Georgia Holt, had aspirations in the entertainment industry. Cher often accompanied her mother to auditions and gained exposure to the world of show business at an early age. Cher attended Montclair College Preparatory School in Encino, California.
However, her interest in academics was reportedly limited, and she faced challenges in traditional schooling. Cher's early aspirations were more focused on a career in the entertainment industry than pursuing higher education. Her exposure to Hollywood and the music scene with her mother seemed to heavily influence her desire to become a performer.
Career
Music
Early Days and Sonny & Cher
Cher's foray into the music scene began in the 1960s, alongside Sonny Bono. The dynamic duo, known as Sonny & Cher, mesmerized audiences with their iconic hits like "I Got You Babe." Their folk-pop sound and Cher's distinctive contralto voice set them apart, making them a household name.
Solo Stardom and Chart-Topping Success
Cher's solo career skyrocketed with hits like "Gypsies, Tramps & Thieves" and "Half-Breed." Her ability to effortlessly blend genres—from pop and rock to disco—showcased her versatility. Each song became a piece of the musical mosaic that is Cher.
The Goddess of Pop
Cher's reinvention in the late '90s marked a new era. Her album "Believe" not only produced the chart-topping title track but also introduced the world to Auto-Tune. The groundbreaking use of technology solidified her title as the "Goddess of Pop."
Farewell Tours and Resurgence
Cher's "Living Proof: The Farewell Tour" in 2002–2005 was meant to be a goodbye, but true to her nature, she returned with a vengeance. The "Here We Go Again Tour" in 2018 proved that Cher's appeal is timeless, drawing fans young and old.
Acting
In addition to her successful music career, Cher ventured into acting.
Breakthrough with "Moonstruck" (1987)
Cher's acting journey hit its zenith with "Moonstruck," a romantic comedy where her performance as Loretta Castorini earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. The film displayed Cher's depth and range, proving she was more than just a music icon.
Versatility in Roles
Cher's acting portfolio is a kaleidoscope of genres. From the suspenseful "Silkwood" (1983) to the gritty "Mask" (1985), she defied expectations, earning her a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress. Cher's ability to embody various characters defined her as a dynamic actress.
Cher and Comedy
The '90s saw Cher delving into comedy with films like "Mermaids" (1990) and "The Witches of Eastwick" (1987). Her comedic timing and natural flair for humor endeared her to audiences, proving she could elicit laughs as effortlessly as she could tears.
Musicals and Biopics
Cher's larger-than-life presence translated seamlessly to musicals. In "Burlesque" (2010), she not only starred alongside Christina Aguilera but also showcased her powerhouse vocals. The biopics "Suspect" (1987) and "Tea with Mussolini" (1999) further highlighted her unique acting skills.
Television Triumphs
Cher's TV ventures were equally iconic. Who could forget "Cher" (1975–1976), her own variety show? Also, her Emmy-winning turn in "Cher: The Farewell Tour" (2003) was a huge success.
Philanthropy on Screen
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Cher used her influence to shed light on critical issues. "If These Walls Could Talk" (1996) addressed abortion rights, showcasing her commitment to using film as a platform for social change.
Business Ventures
Perfume Line
Cher has entered the fragrance industry with the launch of her own line of perfumes. "Cher Eau de Couture" (2019) and "Uninhibited" (1987)
Clothing and Accessories
Cher has occasionally collaborated with fashion designers and brands, contributing to clothing lines and accessories. Her iconic sense of style has made her a fashion icon, and she has capitalized on this by associating with the fashion industry. Cher has also starred in many fashion campaigns, including the Dsquared2 spring/summer advertising campaign in February 2020.
Health and Fitness
She starred in a number of informercials in the early 1990s while her health was so bad that she was unable to work on other projects. Her earnings from different infomercials promoting diet, beauty, and health items are reported to be close to $10 million.
Cher's Net Worth
Cher is worth $360 million in total. It's no surprise with her having had a multi-decade career and being considered a cultural icon by many. She is among the best-selling musicians in the world, having sold over 100 million records to date.
Personal Life
Cher formally married Sonny Bono in 1969, shortly after giving birth to their son Chaz Bono (born Chastity Bono) in March of that year. Sonny filed for divorce in February 1974, citing "irreconcilable differences," and Cher reacted with a divorce suit, alleging that he withheld money from her and denied her access to some of their joint earnings. The ensuing legal struggle over finances and child custody was settled in June 1975. What she lost then, she made up for by suing his widow, Mary Bono, after Sonny's untimely death in a ski accident.
Cher dated record executive David Geffen during her divorce from Sonny. Cher married guitarist Gregg Allman four days after finalizing her divorce from Sonny and filed for divorce nine days later. They reconciled, however, and had a son, Elijah Blue, in July 1976. Cher and Allman split up in 1979. Cher has dated Gene Simmons, Eric Stoltz, Tom Cruise, and Richie Sambora, among others.
Health
Cher suffers from the Epstein-Barr virus, a condition that can cause chronic fatigue and other symptoms. Despite her health challenges, Cher has continued to perform to the best of her abilities.
Activism
Cher's philanthropic efforts have had a significant impact. Her involvement in humanitarian causes, including HIV/AIDS awareness and LGBTQ+ rights, demonstrates a commitment beyond the business realm.
Controversy
Cher sparked outrage last December when it was discovered that her daughter-in-law, Marieangela King, accused her of abducting her second son, Elijah Blue Allman, in a court declaration.
Cher, according to King, was concerned about her son's health. This apparently prompted her to intervene forcefully, with four people entering their hotel room on the "Believe" singer's orders to remove Elijah.
