Challenges Faced by Cher: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Cher's life and career.

Cher, an American singer, actress, and television personality, is celebrated as the "Goddess of Pop." Known for her distinctive androgynous contralto voice, multifaceted career, and striking visual presence, she has cultivated a screen persona mirroring her public image by portraying strong-willed, outspoken women. Her remarkable adaptability has facilitated numerous comebacks throughout her career, which has spanned over six decades, solidifying her enduring impact on pop culture.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

1967: Decline in Music Charting and Unsuccessful Film 'Good Times'

By the late 1960s, specifically 1967, Sonny and Cher's music stopped charting, and their musical film 'Good Times' was commercially unsuccessful.

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1969: Dropped from Imperial Records and Atco, Solo Deal Offer and Album Release

In 1969, Cher was dropped from Imperial Records, and Sonny & Cher were dropped from Atco. Atco offered her a solo album deal. She recorded 3614 Jackson Highway without Sonny's guidance, experimenting with R&B and soul. Also in 1969, Sonny prevented her from releasing more recordings for Atco, displeased with the album.

1972: End of Relationship, Legal Marriage Continues

In late 1972, Cher and Sonny ended their relationship but remained legally married to protect their careers. Sonny's infidelity and controlling behavior had troubled their relationship for years.

April 1974: Cancellation of The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour

In April 1974, The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour was cancelled after Sonny filed for separation in February, citing "irreconcilable differences." The show was replaced by The Sonny Comedy Revue.

1975: Signing with Warner Bros. Records and Release of Stars

In 1975, Cher signed a $2.5 million deal with Warner Bros. Records and released the album Stars, aiming to establish herself as a serious rock artist. The album was a commercial and critical failure at the time, but gained a cult following later.

August 1977: Cancellation of The Sonny and Cher Show Reunion

In August 1977, The Sonny and Cher Show was cancelled, partially due to backlash from their onscreen banter about the divorce and Cher's troubled relationship with Allman.

1977: Release of Two the Hard Way and Tour Cancellation

In 1977, Cher and Gregg Allman released the duet album Two the Hard Way. They toured Europe to support the album, but the tour was cancelled due to frequent fights at venues.

1977: Release of Cherished Album

In 1977, Cher released the album Cherished, which marked a return to her earlier narrative pop style but was also a commercial failure.

1981: Disbanding of Black Rose

In 1981, the rock band Black Rose, formed by Cher and Les Dudek, disbanded.

1982: Take Me Home Tour Becomes Cher's First Solo Tour; New Wave Album Released

In 1982, Cher's residency evolved into her first solo tour, the Take Me Home Tour, with dates in North America, Europe, South Africa and Australia. Cher also released the new wave album "I Paralyze", her only album under Columbia Records, which was a commercial failure in 1982.

1985: Critical and Commercial Success with Mask

In 1985, Cher achieved critical and commercial success as a leading actress with the biopic "Mask", which reached number two at the box office. During production, Cher clashed with director Peter Bogdanovich.

1992: Cameo in The Player and Health Issues

In 1992, Cher had a cameo in Robert Altman's "The Player". She also contracted the Epstein-Barr virus and developed chronic fatigue syndrome. She declined leading roles in "Thelma & Louise" and "The War of the Roses".

1994: Cameo in Prêt-à-Porter and Infomercials

In 1994, Cher appeared in a cameo role in Robert Altman's "Prêt-à-Porter". She also appeared in infomercials for health, beauty, and diet products to generate income.

1996: Directorial Debut and Starring in Faithful

In 1996, Cher starred in and directed a segment of the TV film "If These Walls Could Talk", marking her directorial debut. She also starred in the film "Faithful", which she later disowned. "If These Walls Could Talk" became HBO's highest-rated original movie to date.

2000: Release of Not Commercial

In 2000, Cher independently released "Not Commercial" on her website, an album she wrote in 1994 after her label rejected it for its explicit language and themes. The song "Sisters of Mercy" sparked controversy for its criticism of the Catholic Church.