How old is Cher?

Cher, often referred to as the “Goddess of Pop” and “The Queen of Reinvention,” has been a dominant figure in the entertainment industry for more than six decades. Known for her remarkable voice, fashion-forward style, and fearless approach to embracing change, Cher has remained relevant through multiple generations. If you’ve been wondering how old this legend is, here’s a detailed look at her age and the career milestones that have made her a true cultural icon.

1. Cher’s Birthdate and Current Age

Cher was born on May 20, 1946, in El Centro, California, USA. As of 2025, Cher is 79 years old.

Her birth year places her in the Silent Generation (those born between the mid-1920s and early 1940s), but she has defied any expectations of aging by remaining a major influence in music, film, and fashion well into her 70s. Cher’s ability to reinvent herself at every stage of her career has contributed to her status as one of the most enduring icons in the entertainment world.

2. Cher’s Early Life and Beginnings in Show Business

Cherilyn Sarkisian, later known professionally as Cher, was born to John Sarkisian, an Armenian-American truck driver, and Georgia Holt, a part-Cherokee actress and singer. Raised in a mixed cultural background, Cher experienced a turbulent childhood, marked by her parents’ divorce when she was young. However, her early exposure to music and show business had a profound impact on her future.

Cher initially attended Montclair College Preparatory School in California but dropped out at 16 to pursue a career in entertainment. In 1963, she moved to Los Angeles, where she met Sonny Bono, who would become her future husband, musical partner, and mentor. This encounter would change the course of her life, both personally and professionally.

3. Cher’s Rise to Fame with Sonny & Cher

Cher’s first major break came as part of the duo Sonny & Cher, alongside her then-husband Sonny Bono. The couple’s musical partnership became a massive success in the mid-1960s, with their hit single “I Got You Babe” (1965), which reached No. 1 on the charts. Their unique sound—combining pop, folk, and rock—captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.

Sonny & Cher went on to release several successful albums, and their “The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour” (1971–1974) became a hit television show, showcasing their charm and comedic talents. Cher’s quirky style, distinct voice, and magnetic personality made her a household name during this period.

4. Cher’s Solo Career and Reinvention

After her divorce from Sonny Bono in 1975, Cher’s solo career truly took off. She transitioned from a folk-pop singer to a more diverse artist, exploring different genres including rock, disco, and pop. Some of her most iconic solo hits include:

• “Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves” (1971): A song that reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking a major milestone in Cher’s career.
• “Half-Breed” (1973): Another hit that solidified her status as a pop star and cultural icon.
• “Dark Lady” (1974): This track became another chart-topping success, further establishing her solo career.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Cher continued to experiment with her music, branching out into dance and pop music, and earned several Grammy nominations. She not only became known for her powerful voice but also for her bold fashion choices, often breaking societal norms.

5. Cher’s Reinvention in the 1980s and 1990s

Cher’s career experienced a resurgence in the 1980s when she embraced a more mainstream pop sound and shifted her image. One of the key moments in this period was her role in the film “Moonstruck” (1987), which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film’s success helped further cement her place as a multifaceted entertainer. Her career was thriving both on stage and in Hollywood.

In 1989, Cher released the album “Heart of Stone”, which included hits like “If I Could Turn Back Time”, one of her most iconic songs. The music video, featuring Cher in a daring outfit, became iconic and was heavily played on MTV, propelling her into the forefront of the pop music scene once again.

6. Cher’s Continued Success and Influence in the 2000s and 2010s

In the 2000s, Cher continued her reign as a pop culture icon with “Believe” (1998), a groundbreaking album that featured the hit song “Believe”, which became a worldwide phenomenon. The song not only topped the charts globally but also introduced Cher to a new generation of fans with its use of auto-tune, which was revolutionary at the time.

Her “Farewell Tour” (2002–2005) became one of the highest-grossing concert tours of all time, although, as is typical of Cher, the “farewell” was only temporary. She continued to tour and perform well into her 70s, showing no signs of slowing down.

In 2018, Cher starred in the hit musical “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again”, further solidifying her role as a beloved figure in pop culture. She also released a new album, “Dancing Queen” (2018), which featured covers of ABBA songs.

7. Cher’s Personal Life

Cher’s personal life has been just as public and storied as her professional career. She was married to Sonny Bono from 1964 until their divorce in 1975. Following her marriage to Sonny, she had relationships with several high-profile figures, including Gregg Allman, the lead singer of the Allman Brothers Band, whom she married in 1975.

Cher has two children: Chaz Bono, who transitioned from female to male and has been an advocate for transgender rights, and Elijah Blue Allman, her son with Gregg Allman.

Despite her tumultuous personal life, Cher has maintained a strong presence in both her professional and personal endeavors. She has been a vocal advocate for numerous causes, including LGBTQ+ rights, and continues to support many philanthropic efforts.

8. Cher’s Legacy and Influence

At 79 years old, Cher is not just a singer; she is a cultural institution. Her ability to reinvent herself repeatedly throughout her career—from a 1960s folk singer to a 1980s pop diva to a 2000s icon—has made her one of the most enduring and influential figures in entertainment.

Cher’s impact extends beyond music. Her advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, body positivity, and gender equality has made her a trailblazer for generations. With a career spanning more than 60 years, Cher has won multiple Grammy Awards, Emmy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and an Academy Award, making her one of the most awarded women in entertainment history.

Cher, born on May 20, 1946, is 79 years old as of 2025. Throughout her extraordinary career, she has cemented herself as a true legend in the entertainment industry. From her early days as part of Sonny & Cher to her transformation into a global pop icon and cultural symbol, Cher has been an indomitable force in the world of music, film, and fashion.

Cher’s ability to evolve with the times while remaining authentic to her roots has ensured her place in the annals of entertainment history. At 79, Cher continues to inspire fans across generations, proving that true legends only grow more powerful with age.