Cher Reflects on Iconic Bond with Ex-Husband Sonny Bono

Lifetime Achievement Award at 2026 Grammys to honor Cher's extraordinary career journey.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:59pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of shimmering, glittering sequins in high-contrast studio lighting, capturing the essence of Cher's legendary entertainment career and glamorous persona.Cher's decades-long career is defined by her unparalleled style and showmanship, as she prepares to receive a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.Palm Springs Today

Cher's extraordinary journey is about to be celebrated with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammys, honoring her incredible career. But it's her unique bond with ex-husband Sonny Bono that truly stands out, as she reflects on how meeting him was a pivotal moment that shaped her life, and the aftermath of their split that pushed her to pursue her solo career.

Why it matters

Cher and Sonny Bono's relationship had both personal and professional aspects, and their split forced Cher to stand on her own and explore her own path, leading to her solo success. Their story highlights the complexities of love and loss, and the power of connection and resilience.

The details

Cher described meeting Sonny as a catalyst that changed everything, but the real turning point was when they divorced. While they thrived creatively together, their home life was challenging, and the split was a 'weird' period where they continued to work and live together. Even through their ups and downs, they maintained a strong connection, and Sonny's tragic death left Cher devastated. Years later, Cher's grief has evolved, and she still feels Sonny's presence.

  • Cher and Sonny Bono met in the 1960s, which propelled Cher towards success.
  • Cher and Sonny divorced in the 1970s, which forced Cher to pursue her solo career.
  • Sonny Bono died in a skiing accident in 1998, leaving Cher devastated.
  • Cher dedicated her 1998 comeback album 'Believe' to Sonny.
  • Cher is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammys.

The players

Cher

An iconic American singer, actress, and television personality who rose to fame as one half of the popular 1960s pop duo Sonny & Cher.

Sonny Bono

Cher's ex-husband and former musical partner, who was also a singer, songwriter, producer, and politician.

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What they’re saying

“Meeting Sonny changed everything, but the real turning point was when we divorced. It forced me to stand on my own two feet and pursue my solo career.”

— Cher

“We worked tirelessly, and it took me a while to realize I wasn't happy. Our communication suffered, and the long hours on stage left little room for a normal home life.”

— Cher

“We talked all the time, even during our tumultuous stages. On our divorce day, he kissed me passionately, and we laughed it off. It was hard to stay angry with him.”

— Cher

“I was in London when I heard the news. It was surreal. I broke down, and flew straight to Palm Springs to be with his loved ones.”

— Cher

“I don't think of Sonny often, probably because I don't see him as gone. I imagine he's somewhere else, not here but not gone either. I often think of what he'd find funny.”

— Cher

What’s next

Cher is set to receive a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Grammys, honoring her extraordinary career and the lasting impact of her unique bond with Sonny Bono.

The takeaway

Cher's story with Sonny Bono is a testament to the complexities of love and loss, and the power of connection and resilience. Their personal and professional relationship shaped Cher's journey, and even after Sonny's tragic passing, his presence continues to be felt in Cher's life.