History of Cher in Timeline
Cher, often called the "Goddess of Pop," is a highly successful American singer, actress, and television personality. Celebrated for her distinctive contralto voice, diverse career spanning music, film, and television, and striking visual style, Cher has built a public persona embodying strong, independent women. Her capacity for reinvention has enabled numerous career resurgences, establishing her as a lasting cultural icon.
1943: Cabin in the Sky musical film
In 1943, the musical film Cabin in the Sky was released
May 20, 1946: Cher's Birth
On May 20, 1946, Cheryl Sarkisian, known professionally as Cher, was born. She would later become a celebrated American singer, actress, and television personality, known as the "Goddess of Pop."
1961: Adoption and Enrollment in Private School
In 1961, Cher was adopted by Gilbert LaPiere, who enrolled her and her sister at Montclair College Preparatory School in Encino. This change placed Cher, previously from a modest background, into an upper-class environment.
1961: Audrey Hepburn Admiration
In 1961, Cher was fascinated by Audrey Hepburn, particularly in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's', and emulated her style.
November 1962: Meeting Sonny Bono
In November 1962, Cher met Sonny Bono, who was working for record producer Phil Spector, while dancing in nightclubs along Hollywood's Sunset Strip.
October 27, 1964: Unofficial Wedding Ceremony with Sonny Bono
On October 27, 1964, Cher and Sonny Bono, who had become close friends and eventual lovers, performed their own unofficial wedding ceremony in a hotel room in Tijuana, Mexico.
1964: Signing with Imperial Records and Becoming Producer
At the end of 1964, Cher signed with Liberty Records' Imperial imprint, with Sonny Bono as her producer.
1964: Used Alias Bonnie Jo Mason
In 1964, Cher used the alias Bonnie Jo Mason.
July 1965: Travel to England
In July 1965, following the recording of "I Got You Babe", Caesar and Cleo (Sonny & Cher) traveled to England at the advice of The Rolling Stones.
August 14, 1965: "I Got You Babe" Topped the Charts
On August 14, 1965, "I Got You Babe" topped the Billboard charts for the first time.
1965: Rise to Fame with Sonny & Cher and Solo Success
In 1965, Cher gained fame as part of the folk-rock duo Sonny & Cher. That same year, she achieved solo success with top-ten singles like "All I Really Want to Do" and "Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)".
1965: Solo Success with 'All I Really Want to Do'
In 1965, Cher's cover of Bob Dylan's "All I Really Want to Do" peaked at number 15 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number nine on the UK Singles Chart, launching her solo career.
1965: Release of 'Look at Us'
In 1965, Sonny and Cher's first album, 'Look at Us', was released and spent eight weeks at number two on the Billboard 200.
1965: Greatest Hits: 1965-1992
In 1992, Cher released the UK-only compilation album Greatest Hits: 1965–1992, which topped the UK Albums Chart for seven weeks.
1965: Comparison to "I Got You Babe" success
In 1998, Entertainment Weekly noted the album's role in introducing her to a new generation of fans who "hadn't yet been born when 'I Got You Babe' ruled the charts in 1965."
1966: Release of 'The Sonny Side of Chér' and 'Chér'
In 1966, Cher released 'The Sonny Side of Chér', featuring "Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)", which became a million-seller, and her self titled album, 'Chér', which includes "Alfie".
1967: Modeling Career
In 1967, Cher began her modeling career for photographer Richard Avedon after being discovered by Vogue editor Diana Vreeland.
1967: Release of 'With Love, Chér'
In 1967, Cher released 'With Love, Chér', which included the top-ten single "You Better Sit Down Kids".
1967: Starred in Good Times
In 1967, Cher starred in the film Good Times.
1968: Release of 'Backstage'
In 1968, Cher released the album 'Backstage', which explored diverse musical genres but was not a commercial success.
March 4, 1969: Birth of Chaz Bono
On March 4, 1969, Cher gave birth to Chaz Bono, after which she and Sonny officially married.
1969: Dropped from Imperial Records and Release of '3614 Jackson Highway'
In 1969, Cher was dropped from Imperial Records, but released '3614 Jackson Highway', which experimented in R&B and soul music and was recorded without Sonny's guidance.
August 1, 1971: Premiere of 'The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour'
On August 1, 1971, 'The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour' premiered as a summer replacement series on CBS, attracting over 30 million weekly viewers.
1971: Sonny and Cher Recording Career Revival
Between 1971 and 1973, Sonny and Cher's recording career was revived with four albums released under Kapp Records and MCA Records: Sonny & Cher Live (1971), All I Ever Need Is You (1972), Mama Was a Rock and Roll Singer, Papa Used to Write All Her Songs (1973) and Live in Las Vegas Vol. 2 (1973).
1971: "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves" Called One of the Greatest Songs
Cher's 1971 single "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves" was called "one of the 20th century's greatest songs" by Billboard.
1971: Release of "Classified 1A"
In 1971, Cher released "Classified 1A", a single about a soldier dying in Vietnam, written by Sonny. Radio stations rejected it for being uncommercial.
1971: Release of "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves" and Album Chér
In 1971, Cher released "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves", her second US number-one single, produced by Snuff Garrett. The song topped both US Billboard Hot 100 and Canadian Singles Chart, being called "one of the 20th century's greatest songs" by Billboard. The album "Chér" (reissued as "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves") was also released and certified gold.
1971: Reference in Will & Grace
In 2000, the Will & Grace episode title "Gypsies, Tramps and Weed" was released referencing Cher's 1971 song "Gypsys, Tramps & Thieves".
1972: Continued Chart Success
Between 1965 and 1972, Sonny and Cher charted ten Billboard top 40 singles.
1972: Sonny and Cher Recording Career Revival
Between 1971 and 1973, Sonny and Cher's recording career was revived with four albums released under Kapp Records and MCA Records: Sonny & Cher Live (1971), All I Ever Need Is You (1972), Mama Was a Rock and Roll Singer, Papa Used to Write All Her Songs (1973) and Live in Las Vegas Vol. 2 (1973).
1972: First Tattoo
In 1972, Cher got her first tattoo, which Sonny Bono described as creating a shocking effect.
1972: Release of Foxy Lady
In 1972, Cher released "Foxy Lady", an all-ballad album demonstrating her vocal evolution.
1972: Release of "The Way of Love"
In 1972, Cher released "The Way of Love", a single interpreted by some as potentially about a woman's love for another woman or a farewell to a gay male friend.
1972: "Best Dressed Women" Lists
In 1972, after being featured on the annual "Best Dressed Women" lists, Bob Mackie stated, "There hasn't been a girl like Cher since Dietrich and Garbo."
1972: Marital Problems Begin
Since late 1972, Cher and Sonny had marital problems, which they kept from the public.
1973: Sonny and Cher Recording Career Revival
Between 1971 and 1973, Sonny and Cher's recording career was revived with four albums released under Kapp Records and MCA Records: Sonny & Cher Live (1971), All I Ever Need Is You (1972), Mama Was a Rock and Roll Singer, Papa Used to Write All Her Songs (1973) and Live in Las Vegas Vol. 2 (1973).
1973: Release of Bittersweet White Light and "Half-Breed"
In 1973, Cher released "Bittersweet White Light", an unsuccessful album of standards. She also recorded "Half-Breed", which became her third US number-one single and the title track of her next album, both certified gold.
February 1974: Sonny files for separation
In February 1974, Sonny filed for separation from Cher, citing "irreconcilable differences".
1974: Met Gala Appearance
In 1974, Cher first wore the Bob Mackie-designed beaded and feathered nude gown to the Met Gala, which Vogue's André Leon Talley stated "changed everything".
1974: Release of "Dark Lady" and Greatest Hits Album
In 1974, Cher released "Dark Lady", which topped the Billboard Hot 100. Later that year, she released a "Greatest Hits" album, solidifying her status as a top hitmaker.
1974: Golden Globe Win and Sonny's Solo Show
In 1974, Cher won a Golden Globe for "The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour". Also in 1974, Sonny premiered his solo show, "The Sonny Comedy Revue", which was canceled after 13 weeks.
February 16, 1975: Debut of Cher's Solo CBS Show
On February 16, 1975, Cher debuted her solo CBS show, "Cher", featuring music, comedy, and extensive wardrobe. The show received positive reviews but ended within a year.
June 26, 1975: Finalization of Divorce
On June 26, 1975, Cher and Sonny's divorce was finalized after legal battles over finances and custody of their child.
June 30, 1975: Marriage to Gregg Allman
On June 30, 1975, Cher married Gregg Allman, co-founder of the Allman Brothers Band, just four days after finalizing her divorce from Sonny.
1975: Time Magazine Cover
In 1975, Cher appeared on the cover of Time magazine in a beaded and feathered nude gown designed by Bob Mackie, a look considered "one of the most recreated and monumental of all time".
1975: Signing with Warner Bros. and Release of "Stars"
In 1975, Cher signed a $2.5 million deal with Warner Bros. Records. She released the album "Stars", which aimed to establish her as a rock star but was initially unsuccessful commercially and critically.
February 1976: Debut of The Sonny and Cher Show
In February 1976, "The Sonny and Cher Show" debuted on CBS, reuniting the divorced couple on television.
July 10, 1976: Birth of Elijah Blue
On July 10, 1976, Cher and Gregg Allman had a son, Elijah Blue.
1976: Sonny & Cher Dolls and Release of "I'd Rather Believe in You"
In 1976, Mego Toys released Sonny & Cher dolls, with the Cher doll becoming the best-selling doll of the year. Also, in 1976, she released the album "I'd Rather Believe in You", which was a commercial failure.
August 1977: Cancellation of The Sonny and Cher Show
In August 1977, "The Sonny and Cher Show" was canceled due to public backlash related to their divorce and Cher's lifestyle.
1977: Allman and Woman Project and Tour Cancellation
In 1977, Cher and Gregg Allman recorded the duet album "Two the Hard Way" as "Allman and Woman". The European tour to support the album was canceled due to audience fights.
1977: Release of Cherished
In 1977, Cher released the album "Cherished", a return to her earlier pop storyteller style, but it was a commercial failure.
1978: Relationship with Gene Simmons and TV Specials
In 1978, Cher began a relationship with Gene Simmons of Kiss. She also returned to television with the specials "Cher... Special" and "Cher... and Other Fantasies".
June 1979: Caesars Palace Residency Begins
Beginning in June 1979, Cher performed a residency at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, earning $300,000 weekly.
1979: Finalization of Divorce from Allman
In 1979, Cher and Gregg Allman's divorce was finalized after a troubled relationship.
1979: Las Vegas Residency
In 1979, Cher hired two drag queens to perform with her during her Las Vegas residency, "one of the first to bring drag to the masses".
1979: Legal Mononym Adoption and Disco Comeback
In 1979, Cher legally adopted her mononym. She signed with Casablanca Records and launched a disco comeback with the single "Take Me Home" and the album of the same name, both of which became instant successes and were certified gold.
1979: Release of Prisoner and "Hell on Wheels"
In 1979, Cher released the album "Prisoner", with a controversial cover. The single "Hell on Wheels", from the film Roller Boogie, was also released.
1980: Collaboration on "Bad Love"
In 1980, Cher collaborated with Giorgio Moroder to write "Bad Love" for the film Foxes, marking her final Casablanca disco track.
1980: Formation of Black Rose
In 1980, Cher formed the rock band Black Rose with Les Dudek, adopting a punk-inspired look.
1980: "Hell on Wheels" Video
In 1980, Cher's video for "Hell on Wheels" was released, incorporating cinematic techniques and considered one of the earliest examples of a modern music video.
1980: Aggressive Vocals
In 1980, with the release of Black Rose, Cher began using sharper, more aggressive vocals on her hard rock-oriented albums, which helped establish her sexually confident image.
1981: Disbandment of Black Rose
In 1981, Black Rose disbanded due to poor reviews and a lack of concert bookings.
1981: Take Me Home Tour and Collaboration with Meat Loaf
In 1981, Cher continued her Take Me Home Tour and collaborated with Meat Loaf on "Dead Ringer for Love", a successful duet.
1982: Broadway Debut and Film Adaptation
In 1982, Cher debuted on Broadway and starred in the film adaptation of 'Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean', earning critical acclaim.
1982: Move to New York and Broadway Debut
In 1982, Cher moved to New York to study acting and was cast in Robert Altman's Broadway production "Come Back to the 5 & Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean".
1982: Release of I Paralyze
In 1982, Cher released the new wave album "I Paralyze" under Columbia Records, which was a commercial failure.
1983: Silkwood Premiere and Awards
In 1983, Cher appeared in "Silkwood" and received critical acclaim, leading to nominations for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and winning the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress – Motion Picture.
1983: Silkwood Film
In 1983, Cher portrayed a lesbian in the film Silkwood, described as one of the first superstars to 'play gay' with compassion and without a hint of stereotyping.
1983: Academy Award Nomination for 'Silkwood'
In 1983, Cher received her first Academy Award nomination for her role in 'Silkwood'.
1983: Declined Solo Hollywood Walk of Fame Honor
In 1983, Cher was selected for a solo star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but declined to schedule the appearance.
1983: CableACE Award for Cher... A Celebration at Caesars
In 1983, Cher won the CableACE Award for Best Actress in a Variety Program for "Cher... A Celebration at Caesars".
1985: Cannes Film Festival Award for 'Mask'
In 1985, Cher won the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress for her performance in 'Mask'.
1985: Release of Mask and Cannes Film Festival Award
In 1985, Cher's film, Mask, was released, achieving both critical and commercial success. For her performance as a drug-addicted biker in Mask, Cher won the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress.
May 1986: Guest appearance on Late Night with David Letterman
In May 1986, Cher appeared as a guest on Late Night with David Letterman, where she called Letterman "an asshole," which attracted significant media attention.
1986: Relationships
In 1986, Cher began dating Rob Camilletti, a bagel baker 18 years her junior, continuing until 1989. Throughout the late 1980s Cher also had romantic relationships with other younger men.
1987: Performance in Moonstruck Praised
Cher's performance in Moonstruck from 1987 was praised in The New York Times Magazine's annual "Best Actors" list, noted as a source of comfort during quarantine in 2020.
1987: Uninhibited fragrance
In 1987, Cher launched Uninhibited fragrance.
1987: Music Comeback with Rock-Inflected Album
In 1987, Cher made a comeback with the rock-inflected album Cher, marking a significant shift in her musical style.
1987: Reunion with Sonny on Letterman's show
In 1987, Cher returned to Late Night with David Letterman, where she reunited with Sonny for a final performance before his death to sing "I Got You Babe".
1987: Signing with Geffen Records and releasing Cher album
In 1987, Cher signed with Geffen Records and released the album "Cher", featuring the hit rock ballad "I Found Someone" which was her first US top-ten single in more than eight years.
1987: Starring in three films
In 1987, Cher starred in three films: Suspect, The Witches of Eastwick, and Moonstruck. The latter two were among the top ten highest-grossing movies of the year.
1987: Academy Award Win for 'Moonstruck' and 'The Witches of Eastwick'
In 1987, Cher won the Academy Award for Best Actress for 'Moonstruck' and also starred in 'The Witches of Eastwick'.
1987: Unexpected acclaim for Moonstruck
In 1987, the unexpected acclaim for Moonstruck made Cher overly cautious about future roles.
1988: Impact on Women Moviegoers
Following Cher's 1988 Oscar win, Stephanie Brush highlighted her impact on women moviegoers in The New York Times.
1988: Academy Award and Gold Album in the Same Year
In 1988, Cher became the first performer to receive an Academy Award for acting and a RIAA-certified gold album in the same year.
1988: Academy Award win and fragrance release
In 1988, Cher won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in Moonstruck. Also in 1988, she released her fragrance, Uninhibited, which earned about $15 million in its first year sales.
1989: Release of 'Heart of Stone'
In 1989, Cher released 'Heart of Stone', continuing her rock-influenced musical direction.
1989: Release of Heart of Stone album and tour
In 1989, Cher released her 19th studio album, Heart of Stone, and launched the Heart of Stone Tour. The album was a commercial success, and the tour received positive reviews.
1989: End of relationship with Rob Camilletti
In 1989, Cher's relationship with Rob Camilletti, a bagel baker 18 years her junior, ended.
1989: "If I Could Turn Back Time" Controversy
In 1989, the music video for "If I Could Turn Back Time" was banned by MTV due to its controversial content, featuring Cher straddling a cannon and wearing a revealing outfit.
1990: Children's Craniofacial Association
Beginning in 1990, Cher served as a donor and as the National Chairperson and Honorary Spokesperson for the Children's Craniofacial Association.
1990: Became Eligible for Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Cher became eligible for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990.
1990: Started Touring Act
Cher was listed as 23rd highest grossing touring act since 1990.
1990: Starring Role in 'Mermaids'
In 1990, Cher starred in the film 'Mermaids'.
1990: Starring in Mermaids and releasing "The Shoop Shoop Song"
In 1990, Cher starred in the film Mermaids, taking inspiration from her mother for the role. She also recorded a cover of Betty Everett's "The Shoop Shoop Song (It's in His Kiss)" for the film's soundtrack, which topped the UK Singles Chart.
1991: Release of 'Love Hurts'
In 1991, Cher released 'Love Hurts', adding to her string of internationally successful albums.
1991: Release of Love Hurts and publishing Forever Fit
In 1991, Cher released her final studio album with Geffen Records, Love Hurts, and published the exercise book Forever Fit.
1991: Cher... at the Mirage Concert Video
In 1991, Cher's Cher... at the Mirage concert video featured a male dancer impersonating her, setting her apart from contemporary female pop singers and embracing her identity as a "fictionalized production".
1991: Cher...at the Mirage television special
In 1991, a television special, Cher... at the Mirage, was filmed during a Las Vegas concert.
1992: VH1's 100 Greatest Women in Music
Between 1992 and 2012, Cher was ranked 31st on VH1's list of "The 100 Greatest Women in Music".
1992: Support of Ross Perot
In 1992 Cher supported Ross Perot for president of the United States
1992: Release of fitness videos and Love Hurts tour
In 1992, Cher embarked on the Love Hurts Tour and released the fitness videos CherFitness: A New Attitude and CherFitness: Body Confidence.
1992: Cameo appearance in The Player
In 1992, Cher made a cameo appearance in the Robert Altman film The Player.
1992: Madame Tussauds Statue
In 1992, Madame Tussauds wax museum honored Cher as one of the five "most beautiful women of history" by creating a life-size statue.
1993: Humanitarian Mission to Armenia
In 1993, Cher joined a humanitarian mission to Armenia, delivering food and medical supplies to the war-torn region.
1994: Attended Songwriting Conference
In 1994, Cher attended a songwriting conference, which inspired her to write "Not Commercial".
1994: Launch of Sanctuary catalog and Beavis and Butt-Head performance
In 1994, Cher launched a Gothic-themed mail-order catalog, Sanctuary, and contributed a rock version of "I Got You Babe" to MTV's Beavis and Butt-Head.
1995: It's a Man's World Album
For the 1995 album It's a Man's World, Cher restrained her vocals, singing in higher registers and without vibrato.
1995: Release of It's a Man's World
In 1995, Cher signed with Warner Music UK's WEA label and released It's a Man's World, an album of songs originally performed by men. She also topped the UK Singles Chart with the charity single "Love Can Build a Bridge".
1995: Film Clueless references Cher's infomercials
The 1995 film Clueless referenced Cher's infomercial appearances, with a joke about the protagonist being named after a singer who now does infomercials.
1996: "Mom, I am a rich man" Interview
Cher's 1996 interview with Jane Pauley for Dateline NBC became a viral video, featuring her quote, "Mom, I am a rich man."
1996: amfAR Benefit
In 1996, Cher hosted the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR) Benefit alongside Elizabeth Taylor at the Cannes Film Festival.
1996: Directorial Debut with 'If These Walls Could Talk'
In 1996, Cher made her directorial debut with the film 'If These Walls Could Talk', in which she also starred.
1997: Keynote Speaker at PFLAG Convention
In 1997, Cher was the keynote speaker for the national Parents, Families, & Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) convention, becoming a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ community.
1997: Music featured in The X-Files
In 1997, Cher's music played a significant role in The X-Files episode "The Post-Modern Prometheus," which was written with her in mind, highlighting her role in Mask.
May 1998: Received GLAAD Vanguard Award
In May 1998, Cher received the GLAAD Vanguard Award for promoting equal rights for lesbians and gay men.
May 20, 1998: Sonny & Me: Cher Remembers airs
On May 20, 1998, Cher hosted the CBS special Sonny & Me: Cher Remembers, a tribute to Sonny Bono following his death. Later in May, Sonny and Cher received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Television
1998: Commercial Peak with 'Believe'
At age 52, in 1998, Cher reached a commercial peak with the dance-pop album 'Believe', which introduced the "Cher effect" (an extreme use of Auto-Tune).
1998: "Believe" is Biggest-Selling Single in the UK
Cher's 1998 song "Believe" became the biggest-selling single of all time by a female artist in the UK.
1998: Vanguard Award at GLAAD Media Awards
In 1998, Cher received the Vanguard Award at the GLAAD Media Awards.
1998: Release of Believe album
In 1998, Cher released her 22nd studio album, Believe, marking a departure from her previous rock sound and embracing a 1970s disco-inspired dance-pop style.
1998: Release of "Believe" with Auto-Tune
In 1998, Cher's song "Believe" was released, becoming the first commercial recording to use Auto-Tune as a stylistic effect, creating a robotic sound. Cher faced resistance from her label but insisted it remain, coining the "Cher effect".
1998: Believe tops charts
In 1998, the title track "Believe" from Cher's album reached number one in 23 countries and became the best-selling single of the year in the UK.
January 31, 1999: Singing at Super Bowl XXXIII
On January 31, 1999, Cher sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" at Super Bowl XXXIII.
April 3, 1999: "Believe" Last Week at Number One
On April 3, 1999, "Believe" had its last week at number one on the Billboard charts.
May 1999: CFDA Award
In May 1999, The Council of Fashion Designers of America recognized Cher with an award for her influence on fashion.
1999: "Believe" success and Billboard Music Award
In 1999, "Believe" was the best-selling single in the US. Cher won the Grammy Award for Best Dance Recording and the Billboard Music Award for Hot 100 Single of the Year for "Believe".
1999: Named top dance artist of 1999 and Tea with Mussolini
In 1999, Billboard named Cher the top dance artist of the year. Also in 1999, she starred in the critically acclaimed war film Tea with Mussolini.
1999: VH1 Divas Live '99 and Cher: Live in Concert
In 1999, Cher co-headlined the VH1 Divas Live '99 television special and released the Cher: Live in Concert - From the MGM Grand in Las Vegas television special.
1999: Legend Award at World Music Awards and CFDA Fashion Award
In 1999, Cher received the Legend Award at the World Music Awards and a special award for influence on fashion at the CFDA Fashion Awards.
1999: Starring Role in 'Tea with Mussolini'
In 1999, Cher starred in the film 'Tea with Mussolini'.
1999: 'Believe' Tops Charts
In 1999, the title track from the album 'Believe' became the number-one song in the US and the UK's best-selling single by a female artist.
January 2000: Compilation sells three million copies
By January 2000, The Greatest Hits compilation sold three million copies outside the US.
2000: Political Statements During US Presidential Election
During the 2000 United States presidential election, Cher voiced strong opposition to George W. Bush, urging minorities to vote against him and criticizing his character and policies.
2000: Do You Believe? Tour
From 1999 to 2000, Cher's Do You Believe? Tour sold out in every American city.
2000: Will & Grace Appearance
In 2000, Cher appeared as herself in an episode of Will & Grace, which became the show's second-highest-rated episode.
2000: Lucy Award for Innovation in Television
In 2000, Cher received the Lucy Award for Innovation in Television at the Women in Film Awards.
2000: Release of "Not Commercial" album
In 2000, Cher released "Not Commercial", an album she wrote after a songwriting conference in 1994. The album, which included the controversial song "Sisters of Mercy", was sold exclusively on her website after being rejected by her label for being uncommercial.
2000: Not Commercial album release
In 2000, Cher released her album Not Commercial, a album highlighting her storytelling skills with a 1970's singer-songwriter feel.
2001: Living Proof Album
In 2001, Cher extensively used Auto-Tune on her Living Proof album, continuing the style she established with "Believe".
2001: Release of "Living Proof" album
In 2001, Cher released "Living Proof", a dance-focused album that debuted at number nine on the Billboard 200 and was certified gold by the RIAA. The album includes the UK top-ten single "The Music's No Good Without You" and "Song for the Lonely", a tribute to New York after the September 11 attacks.
2001: Ranked as Favorite Leading Actress
In a 2001 poll, Biography magazine ranked Cher as their third favorite leading actress of all time.
June 2002: Launch of Living Proof: The Farewell Tour
In June 2002, Cher launched the "Living Proof: The Farewell Tour", promoted as her final concert tour, though she planned to continue recording and acting. The tour was praised for celebrating Cher's resilience.
2002: Living Proof: The Farewell Tour Begins
In 2002, Cher began her 'Living Proof: The Farewell Tour', which became the highest-grossing concert tour by a female artist at the time.
2002: Artist Achievement Award at Billboard Music Awards
In 2002, Cher received the Artist Achievement Award at the Billboard Music Awards.
2002: Artist Achievement Award
In 2002, Cher was named Billboard's top dance artist and received the Artist Achievement Award at the Billboard Music Awards. Her wealth was estimated at $600 million that year.
2002: VH1's Sexiest Artists List
In 2002, Cher was ranked 26th on VH1's list of the "100 Sexiest Artists".
September 2003: Signs with Warner Bros. Records and Named Highest-Paid Female Musician
In September 2003, Cher signed a global deal with Warner Bros. Records. That year, Forbes named her the highest-paid female musician, earning $33.1 million.
October 2003: Success of the Farewell Tour
By October 2003, "The Farewell Tour" had become the most successful tour by a female artist, grossing $145 million from 200 shows. The NBC special "Cher: The Farewell Tour" drew 17 million viewers.
October 27, 2003: Anonymous Call to C-SPAN About Wounded Soldiers
On October 27, 2003, Cher anonymously called a C-SPAN phone-in program to discuss her visit to maimed soldiers and criticize the lack of media coverage.
2003: Ranked on VH1's "200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons"
In 2003, Cher was ranked at number 41 on VH1's list of "The 200 Greatest Pop Culture Icons".
2003: 'I Got You Babe' Listed Among Greatest Songs
In 2003, Rolling Stone listed "I Got You Babe" among "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time", solidifying its status as a classic hit.
2003: "I Got You Babe" Featured on Rolling Stone's List
Sonny & Cher's "I Got You Babe" was featured on Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time" list in 2003.
April 2005: Conclusion of Farewell Tour
In April 2005, Cher's Farewell Tour concluded after 325 shows, drawing over 3.5 million attendees and grossing $250 million, ranking among the top-ten highest-grossing tours of the 2000s.
2005: Conclusion of Farewell Tour
In 2005, Cher's 'Living Proof: The Farewell Tour' concluded, having grossed $250 million.
2006: Stars and Stripes Interview on Iraq War
In a 2006 Stars and Stripes interview, Cher clarified her position as being "against the war in Iraq but for the troops."
2007: Peace Village School Supporter
In 2007, Cher became the primary supporter of the Peace Village School in Ukunda, Kenya, which "provides nutritious food, medical care, education and extracurricular activities for more than 300 orphans and vulnerable children."
2008: Supported Hillary Clinton and then Barack Obama
In 2008, Cher initially supported Hillary Clinton in her presidential campaign and later supported Barack Obama after he won the Democratic nomination.
2008: Las Vegas Residency
In 2008, after three years of retirement, Cher began a three-year, 200-show residency at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas. The show, titled "Cher", earned a reported $60 million.
June 11, 2009: Chaz Bono Comes Out as a Transgender Man
On June 11, 2009, Chaz Bono publicly came out as a transgender man.
May 6, 2010: Chaz Bono's Transition Legally Finalized
On May 6, 2010, Chaz Bono's transition from female to male was legally finalized.
2010: Handprints and Footprints at Grauman's Chinese Theatre
In 2010, Cher placed her handprints and footprints in cement in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre in Hollywood.
2010: Lifetime Achievement Award at Glamour Awards
In 2010, Cher received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Glamour Awards.
2010: Inspiration for Mother Gothel
In 2010, Cher served as the inspiration for the character Mother Gothel in Disney's "Tangled", with the director citing her "exotic and Gothic looking" appearance as a visual basis.
2010: Appearance in "Burlesque"
In 2010, Cher starred in "Burlesque", her first musical film since 1967, playing a nightclub owner mentoring Christina Aguilera's character.
2010: Starring Role in 'Burlesque'
In 2010, Cher starred in the film 'Burlesque'.
2010: Expressed Preference for Hillary Clinton
In a 2010 interview with Vanity Fair, Cher commented that she "still thinks Hillary would have done a better job" as president.
January 2011: "You Haven't Seen the Last of Me" Tops Charts
In January 2011, Cher's song "You Haven't Seen the Last of Me" from the "Burlesque" soundtrack, topped the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart, making her the only artist with Billboard number-one singles in six consecutive decades.
2011: Voice role in Zookeeper
In 2011, Cher lent her voice to Janet the Lioness in the comedy Zookeeper.
2012: VH1's 100 Greatest Women in Music
Between 1992 and 2012, Cher was ranked 31st on VH1's list of "The 100 Greatest Women in Music".
2012: "Don't Let Mitt Turn Back Time on Women's Rights" PSA
During the 2012 United States presidential election, Cher and Kathy Griffin released a public service announcement criticizing Mitt Romney's stance on women's rights.
May 2013: Aired Documentary About Her Mother
In May 2013, "Dear Mom, Love Cher", a documentary Cher produced about her mother Georgia Holt, aired on Lifetime.
June 2013: Headlined Dance on the Pier
In June 2013, Cher headlined the annual Dance on the Pier benefit, celebrating LGBTQ Pride Day, and achieving the event's first full-capacity crowd in five years.
September 2013: Declined Invitation to Perform at 2014 Winter Olympics
In September 2013, Cher declined an invitation to perform at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia due to the country's anti-LGBTQ legislation.
2013: Legend Award at Attitude Awards
In 2013, Cher received the Legend Award at the Attitude Awards.
2013: Release of 'Closer to the Truth'
In 2013, Cher released 'Closer to the Truth', which debuted at number three on the Billboard 200.
2013: Tied Record with "Closer to the Truth"
In 2013, Cher released her album "Closer to the Truth".
March 2014: Dressed to Kill Tour
In March 2014, Cher embarked on the Dressed to Kill Tour, nearly a decade after announcing her "farewell tour".
2014: Ranked Among Highest-Grossing Touring Acts
In 2014, Billboard listed Cher as the 23rd highest-grossing touring act since 1990.
2014: Declined Invitation to Perform at Winter Olympics
In 2014, Cher declined to perform at the Winter Olympics.
June 2015: Critical Comments on Donald Trump's Candidacy
In June 2015, after Donald Trump announced his candidacy for president, Cher made critical comments on Twitter.
2015: Attended Met Gala and Became Face of Marc Jacobs Campaign
After attending the 2015 Met Gala as Marc Jacobs's guest, Cher became the face of his Fall/Winter campaign.
2015: Collaboration with Wu-Tang Clan
In 2015, Cher collaborated with American hip hop group Wu-Tang Clan on their album "Once Upon a Time in Shaolin", credited under her 1964 alias, Bonnie Jo Mason.
2015: Award of Inspiration at amfAR Gala
In 2015, Cher received the Award of Inspiration at the amfAR Gala.
2015: amfAR Award of Inspiration
In 2015, Cher received the amfAR Award of Inspiration for "her willingness and ability to use her fame for the greater good".
2016: Advocacy for Armenian Genocide Awareness
At the 2016 premiere of The Promise, Cher criticized Turkey's denial of the Armenian Genocide and highlighted the lack of public awareness.
2016: Dateline NBC Interview Goes Viral
In 2016, Cher's 1996 interview for Dateline NBC's Jane Pauley became a viral video.
2016: Flint Water Donation
In 2016, after the discovery of lead contamination in the drinking water of Flint, Michigan, Cher donated more than 180,000 bottles of water to the city.
February 2017: Classic Cher Residency
In February 2017, Cher launched Classic Cher, a three-year concert residency at the Park Theater in Las Vegas and The Theater at MGM National Harbor in Washington, D.C.
2017: Executive Produced Edith+Eddie and Co-founded Free the Wild
In 2017, Cher executive produced Edith+Eddie, a documentary, and co-founded Free the Wild, an international charity.
2017: Icon Award at Billboard Music Awards
In 2017, Cher received the Icon Award at the Billboard Music Awards.
March 2018: Headlined Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras
In March 2018, Cher headlined the 40th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, with tickets selling out quickly after she hinted at her involvement on Twitter.
June 2018: Premiere of The Cher Show
In June 2018, The Cher Show, a biographical jukebox musical based on Cher's life, premiered in Chicago.
September 2018: Release of "Dancing Queen" Album
In September 2018, Cher released "Dancing Queen", an album of ABBA covers, which debuted at number three on the Billboard 200 and received widespread critical acclaim.
December 2, 2018: Kennedy Center Honors
On December 2, 2018, Cher received the Kennedy Center Honors in recognition of her contributions to culture.
December 2018: The Cher Show on Broadway
In December 2018, "The Cher Show" opened on Broadway.
2018: Appearance in 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again' and The Cher Show
In 2018, Cher appeared in 'Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again'. Her life and career also inspired the jukebox musical 'The Cher Show'.
2018: Kennedy Center Honor
In 2018, Cher received the Kennedy Center Honor.
2018: Release of 'Dancing Queen'
In 2018, Cher released 'Dancing Queen', which debuted at number three on the Billboard 200, matching her highest-charting solo album in the US.
2018: Return to film in Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again
In 2018, Cher returned to film after nearly a decade in "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again", playing Ruby Sheridan. Her performance was praised as a highlight of the movie.
2018: Criticized Jair Bolsonaro
In 2018, following Jair Bolsonaro's victory in Brazil's presidential election, Cher called him a "pig" and "a politician from hell".
August 2019: The Cher Show Ended Run on Broadway
In August 2019, The Cher Show ended its run on Broadway.
2019: "Mom, I am a rich man" Quote in Taylor Swift's Music Video
Cher's "Mom, I am a rich man" quote was included in Taylor Swift's 2019 music video "You Need to Calm Down".
2019: Ambassador for the Arts Award at Chita Rivera Awards
In 2019, Cher received the Ambassador for the Arts Award at the Chita Rivera Awards for Dance and Choreography.
May 2020: Released Spanish-Language Song for UNICEF
In May 2020, Cher released her first Spanish-language song, a cover of ABBA's "Chiquitita", with proceeds donated to UNICEF.
September 2020: Fundraiser for Biden's Presidential Campaign
In September 2020, Cher raised nearly $2 million for Joe Biden's presidential campaign at a virtual, LGBTQ-themed fundraiser.
2020: Advocated for Kaavan's Transfer
In 2020, Cher partnered with Four Paws International and traveled to Pakistan to advocate for the transfer of Kaavan, an elephant, to a wildlife sanctuary.
2020: Spirit of Katharine Hepburn Award
In 2020, Cher received the Spirit of Katharine Hepburn Award.
2020: Here We Go Again Tour Postponed
In 2020, Cher's Here We Go Again Tour was indefinitely postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns.
2020: Starred in Dsquared2's Campaign
In the early 2020s, Cher starred in Dsquared2's Spring/Summer 2020 campaign, marking collaborations with major fashion brands.
2021: "Believe" Appears on Rolling Stone's List
In 2021, "Believe" appeared on the revised list of Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
2021: Congratulated Joe Biden for Acknowledging Armenian Genocide
In 2021, Cher congratulated Joe Biden on Twitter for being the first US President to formally acknowledge the Armenian Genocide.
2021: "Believe" listed in "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time"
In 2021, Rolling Stone listed "Believe" among "The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time".
2021: Cher & the Loneliest Elephant Documentary Release
In 2021, the documentary Cher & the Loneliest Elephant was released on Paramount+, detailing Cher's efforts to free Kaavan.
January 2022: Featured in MAC and UGG Campaigns
In January 2022, Cher was featured in MAC Cosmetics' "Challenge Accepted" campaign and UGG's "Feel" campaign.
June 2022: Partnership with Versace for "Chersace" Collection
For Pride Month in June 2022, Cher partnered with Versace to launch the "Chersace" capsule collection, with proceeds benefiting Gender Spectrum.
September 2022: Walked Runway at Paris Fashion Week
In September 2022, Cher walked the runway at Paris Fashion Week, closing Balmain's Spring/Summer 2023 show.
2022: Support for Ukraine and Criticism of Putin
In 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Cher expressed support for Ukraine, criticized Vladimir Putin, and announced plans to provide shelter for Ukrainian refugees.
December 2023: Criticized Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In December 2023, Cher criticized the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for excluding her since becoming eligible in 1990.
December 2023: Chart Topping Single DJ Play a Christmas Song
In December 2023, Cher's lead single "DJ Play a Christmas Song", from the album Christmas (2023), topped the Billboard Adult Contemporary and Dance/Electronic Digital Song Sales charts, marking the seventh consecutive decade.
2023: AI Cover Controversy
In 2023, a Cher Fan Club YouTube channel released an AI cover of Madonna's "La Isla Bonita" using artificial intelligence to replicate Cher's voice, raising concerns about the use of AI in music.
2023: Balmain Blaze
In November, Cher starred in the brand's "Balmain Blaze" campaign in 2023.
October 19, 2024: Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On October 19, 2024, Cher was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, becoming the first musician-actor to win an Academy Award for acting and join the Hall of Fame. She performed "If I Could Turn Back Time" and "Believe" at the ceremony.
November 2024: Publication of First Memoir
In November 2024, Cher published "Cher: The Memoir, Part One", which debuted at number one on The New York Times Best Seller list. The autobiography covers her childhood, early career, and marriages.
2024: Induction into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2024, Cher was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
2025: Value of Farewell Tour Adjusted for Inflation
As of 2025, the $250 million earned by Cher's Living Proof: The Farewell Tour in 2002-2005, would equate to about $402 million, when adjusted for inflation.
2025: Release set for second part of her memoir
The second part of Cher's memoir is set for release in 2025.
