Cher has recently opened up about her extensive six-decade career in Hollywood in the first part of her new memoir. The iconic artist, known for hit songs like “Believe” and memorable roles in films such as “The Witches of Eastwick” and “Mask”, shares insights into both her professional and personal life.
In an interview promoting her memoir with The Times, Cher mentioned that out of all the directors she’s worked with, there were only two whom she found difficult: Peter Bogdanovich and Frank Oz, known for directing “The Muppets”. Cher recalled a tough experience with Oz during the filming of “Mermaids” in 1990, stating that she felt compelled to have him replaced because of his unprofessional attitude towards her. She recounted, “I actually got the guy from The Muppets fired. I said, either you’re going or I’m going.”
Cher’s thoughts on Bogdanovich were similarly candid; she described him as arrogant, recounting a heated moment on the set of “Mask” where he belittled her input on filmmaking. Cher characterized him as “a pig” for his dismissive behavior and thus revealed her strong distaste for working with him.
Beyond discussing her experiences with directors, Cher also delved into her tumultuous personal life. She addressed the difficult discovery about her marriage to Sonny Bono, highlighting the constraints placed on her by a contract that rendered her financially and creatively dependent on him. Thanks to record executive David Geffen, she learned that her efforts were not compensating her fairly and that she had no autonomy or financial rights.
Cher’s revelations illustrate the challenges and obstacles she faced in both her career and personal life, reflecting her resilience in overcoming a complicated past.
This memoir not only serves as a testament to her enduring legacy in entertainment but also offers valuable insights into the dynamics actresses often face in a male-dominated industry. Cher’s narrative may well inspire others in similar situations to find their voice and seek the respect and equality they deserve.
In summary, Cher’s memoir sheds light on her experiences with difficult directors and the struggles she faced in her early career, particularly involving financial independence during her marriage to Sonny Bono. Her candid reflections on these topics contribute to an ongoing conversation about the treatment of women in Hollywood, highlighting the progress made and the work still necessary for future generations.