Cher, the legendary performer whose career spans more than five decades, remains one of the most iconic and enduring figures in entertainment.

With an Oscar, a Grammy, an Emmy, and multiple Golden Globes to her name, she has achieved superstardom through sheer talent, resilience, and reinvention.

In a rare and intimate interview at her stunning Malibu mansion, Cher sat down with Gayle King to reflect on her remarkable life, career, and the personal experiences that have shaped her.

 

Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Cher’s Malibu home has been her sanctuary for the past 20 years.

The breathtaking views mirror the grandeur and complexity of her life.

Yet, Cher reveals a striking distinction between her public persona and her private self.

“When I’m working, I’m just another person,” she confesses.

“I don’t like going up to strangers or going into restaurants, but on stage, I’m free. I have no boundaries.”

 

This duality has been a defining feature of Cher’s career.

On stage, she is larger than life—commanding, fearless, and electrifying.

Off stage, she is more reserved and introspective, a contrast that few fans get to see.

Born Cherylyn Sarkeesian in El Centro, California, Cher credits her mother, Georgia Holt, as one of her strongest influences.

“My mother sang,” Cher says, noting their similar voices.

Yet, intriguingly, Cher admits she doesn’t particularly like her own voice.

Despite this, she has delivered some of the most memorable songs in music history, including hits like “If I Could Turn Back Time” and “Song for the Lonely.”

 

Cher’s career began in the 1960s, a decade that marked the dawn of her professional journey.

She recalls the excitement and challenges of those early days, driven by a passion for singing that was instilled in her by her mother.

 

One of the most pivotal moments in Cher’s life was meeting Sonny Bono, who would become her musical partner and first husband.

Their instant connection was like a scene from a romantic movie.

Cher describes it as “Maria at the dance,” a moment when everything else disappeared except Sonny.

Despite the rocky beginnings—Sonny telling her he didn’t find her particularly attractive and that they would sleep in twin beds—their partnership blossomed.

Sonny recognized Cher’s potential even before she did.

He wrote her a poem calling her a “butterfly that deserves to be seen by all,” and together they formed the iconic duo Sonny & Cher.

 

Their marriage in 1964 launched a successful career filled with catchy tunes and witty banter, including the beloved *Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour*.

Although they divorced in 1975, their musical legacy and personal bond remained significant.

Cher fondly recalls Sonny’s tragic death in a skiing accident two decades later and the heartfelt eulogy she delivered, calling it one of the most important moments of her life.

 

Cher’s career is a testament to reinvention.

Beyond music, she ventured into acting, taking on challenging roles in films such as *Silkwood* and *Mask*.

Her performance in *Moonstruck* earned her an Academy Award, a milestone she describes with humility and surprise.

“When I got up, I was so nervous,” she recalls. “I didn’t have anything planned because I didn’t think I was going to win.”

Despite her immense success, Cher has faced skepticism and ridicule throughout her career.

She acknowledges being laughed at and not always taken seriously, but her perseverance never wavered.

“It hurt my feelings, but I just kept going,” she says.

 

At 72, Cher reflects on the passage of time with a mix of humor and honesty.

She sometimes feels younger than her age and other times older, but she embraces life with vitality.

Her mother, now 92, remains a vital influence, reminding Cher that if you ignore age, it won’t affect you—though Cher jokingly calls this advice “bull.”

 

Cher is known for her elaborate farewell tours, and she insists that her upcoming US tour, *Here We Go Again*, will be her last.

“It’s going to take every ounce of energy to do it,” she says seriously, though the interviewer and audience share a knowing smile, aware that Cher has made similar claims before.

Cher continues to create and inspire.

Her latest project, an ABBA cover album titled *Dancing Queen*, is her 26th studio album.

She worked hard on it and is proud of the result, dedicating the album to her mother.

 

Family remains central to Cher’s life.

She speaks warmly of her mother’s enduring influence and shares candid moments from their relationship.

The interview itself showcases Cher’s blunt honesty and candidness, traits that have endeared her to fans worldwide.

 

Gayle King notes Cher’s straightforwardness, describing her as a “blunt talker” who doesn’t hesitate to say when she doesn’t want to discuss a topic.

Cher’s candidness is refreshing in an industry often characterized by guarded interviews and rehearsed answers.

 

Their conversation flows naturally, covering a wide range of topics from Cher’s early life to her thoughts on aging, artistry, and the future.

Cher’s willingness to push back and speak her mind adds depth and authenticity to the interview.

 

Cher’s impact on music, film, and popular culture is immeasurable.

She has broken barriers, challenged norms, and inspired generations of artists.

Her ability to reinvent herself while staying true to her core has made her a lasting icon.

 

The interview highlights not only her achievements but also the personal struggles and triumphs behind the scenes.

Cher’s story is one of resilience, courage, and relentless pursuit of passion.

As Cher prepares for what she promises will be her final tour, fans eagerly anticipate another chapter in her extraordinary journey.

Gayle King predicts Cher will indeed return to the stage, a testament to her enduring spirit and connection with audiences.

 

Whether through music, film, or personal appearances, Cher’s influence continues to shine.

Her Malibu mansion, with its stunning ocean views, stands as a symbol of a life well-lived—full of challenges, victories, and unyielding creativity.

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