Cher: A Cultural Icon’s Journey Through Music and Film
As a singer, actress, and all-around cultural icon, Cher has mesmerized the public since she first became famous in the mid-1960s as one half of the entertainment duo (and then-married couple) Sonny and Cher. This dynamic partnership marked the beginning of an illustrious career that has spanned over six decades. With a staggering 12 Top 10 hits, including four massive No. 1s, and an acting resume that boasts an Academy Award win, Cher’s staying power in the entertainment industry is truly remarkable.
Watch Cher on SNL
Fans are buzzing with excitement as Cher prepares to return to Saturday Night Live on December 20 as a Musical Guest. You can catch the show on NBC at 11:30 ET/10:30 CT or stream it on Peacock the next day. Her unique blend of talent, good-humored honesty, and dazzling appearances in Bob Mackie fashions ensure that audiences remain captivated by the “Believe” singer.
Throughout her career, Cher has consistently made waves. Although she made a notable appearance during the SNL50 festivities, including a show-stopping performance of “If I Could Turn Back Time,” it has been 38 years since she last graced the storied Studio 8H stage. To honor her remarkable career and fascinating life, let’s take a trip down memory lane, highlighting significant moments through stunning photographs.
Young Cher: Rise to Fame with Sonny Bono
Born Cheryl Sarkisian, Cher’s rise to stardom began in 1965 when she and Salvatore “Sonny” Bono released their debut album, Look at Us. The couple officially married in 1969, following an “unofficial” wedding in 1964, and quickly became household names with chart-topping hits like “I Got You Babe” and “The Beat Goes On.” Their popularity soared in the 1970s as they starred in The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour, where Cher’s uniquely deadpan delivery charmed audiences. The duo also featured in The Sonny and Cher Show before their divorce in 1975, which marked a new chapter in Cher’s life as she navigated fame as a solo artist while co-parenting their child, Chaz Bono.
Cher’s Solo Career and TV Stardom
By the mid-1970s, Cher had become a beloved television personality and solo artist. She released her 12th studio album, Stars, in 1975 and hosted her own two-season show aptly titled Cher, featuring acts like David Bowie. Her collaborative relationship with ex-husband Bono continued as they co-hosted their second TV show together, showcasing Cher’s multifaceted talent and enduring appeal.
In 1979, Cher starred in a fantastical NBC special titled Cher…and Other Fantasies, dressed in dramatic costumes by designer Bob Mackie, her long-time collaborator and muse. Such iconic looks have left a lasting impression on the fashion world.
Marriage to Greg Allman and Musical Ventures
Following her divorce from Bono, Cher married Greg Allman of the Allman Brothers Band in 1975. Their whirlwind romance was highlighted in Allman’s memoir, where he described their first meeting with enchanting detail. The couple welcomed their son, Elijah Blue Allman, in 1976, even releasing an album together titled Two the Hard Way. However, their love story was short-lived, and they parted ways in 1979.
Rocking the 1980s
As the 1980s unfolded, Cher embraced her rocker side more aggressively. She formed a rock duo with musician Les Dudek while also performing residency shows at Caesar’s Palace. Cher’s successes were not limited to music; she ventured into film, resulting in an early-decade romance with Val Kilmer, the star of Top Gun. The two shared a strong bond and maintained a lifelong friendship. Cher’s acting prowess culminated in her 1988 Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Loretta Castorini in the classic film Moonstruck.
Unforgettable Style and Breakthroughs
Cher’s iconic style during awards shows, particularly her enchanting outfits designed by Bob Mackie, received as much attention as her performances. The year 1987 was significant not just for her Oscar win but also marked her musical debut on SNL.
A Triumphant Comeback in the Late 1990s
After a quiet period in the 1990s, Cher made a monumental comeback with her hit “Believe.” At the age of 52, she became the oldest woman to top the charts, establishing her as a trailblazer in an industry that often sidelines older female artists. This regenerative moment solidified her status as an enduring figure in both music and culture.
Catch Cher Live on SNL
Fans can witness Cher’s much-anticipated return to the Saturday Night Live stage as the Musical Guest for the 2025 Christmas show hosted by Ariana Grande. Tune in to NBC and Peacock to experience the timeless talent of an icon who’s been captivating fans for decades.
Cher’s extraordinary journey embodies the spirit of resilience and reinvention, and her upcoming appearance on SNL promises to be a celebration of her enduring legacy as a performer.