Cher’s Early Relationship with Sonny Bono

In a candid interview, music legend Cher has opened up about her tumultuous early relationship with Sonny Bono, revealing that her mother, Georgia Holt, was none too pleased when she discovered that her teenage daughter was involved with the then-27-year-old Bono. The iconic duo, who captivated the world with their hit “I Got You Babe” in 1965, had a rocky beginning that was fraught with drama, thanks in part to Cher’s tender age of just 16.

Cher’s Admission about Her Age

Cher, now 78, recounted the shocking moment in an interview with Anthony Mason on "CBS Sunday Morning," while promoting her upcoming memoir, “Cher: The Memoir.” She admitted to lying about her age when she first met Bono at a coffee shop, claiming, “I told him I was 18,” until someone revealed her true age. With a cheeky grin, she recalled: “So I said, ‘Okay, I’m not 18 but next month is my birthday’—which was true—and I’m going to be 18.” But as far as Cher’s mother was concerned, it was a recipe for trouble, leading her to inform Bono that she would have him jailed if he didn’t stay away from her daughter.

Cher’s Living Arrangement with Bono

Cher’s mother may have had her reasons. Cher moved in with Bono under the premise of being a housekeeper—cooking and cleaning in exchange for rent. On the surface, it seemed like a practical arrangement, but Cher revealed that their initial connection was far from romantic. In fact, when Sonny first invited her to stay with him, he bluntly told Cher, “I don’t find you particularly attractive.”

The Growth of Their Relationship

Even so, their relationship deepened over time, giving birth to a slew of hits and the beloved “Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour.” Cher reflected on how her youthful innocence allowed them to connect in a unique way: “He was kind of childish,” she said, suggesting that their age difference actually helped create a bond devoid of adult expectations. Cher’s carefree spirit, along with activities such as leisurely watercolors, set her apart from the older women who often pursued Bono.

Cher's Fond Memories of Bono

Tragically, Bono's life was cut short in a skiing accident in 1998, but Cher cherishes their memories, including the poignant moment when she transitioned from girl to woman. “I was like his pal, and I was just a kid,” she explained, reminiscing about how Bono’s expression changed when he first saw her in a bathing suit—an encounter that left him both astonished and saddened.

Cher’s Ongoing Preference for Younger Partners

Today, Cher’s preference for younger partners continues, evidenced by her recent relationship with hip-hop producer Alexander “AE” Edwards, who is a staggering 40 years younger than her. It seems that the age gap is a pattern that the legendary performer embraces as she continues to live life on her own terms.

Stay Tuned for More!

Stay tuned for more sensational revelations from Cher's memoir, where she bares it all about love, loss, and all the drama in between!