Cher made a surprising revelation in her new memoir, “Cher: The Memoir, Part One,” which was released on November 19. The legendary artist, born Cherilyn Sarkisian, discovered that her birth certificate listed her first name as Cheryl, a detail that shocked her when she applied for a copy of it back in 1979.
In her memoir, the 78-year-old singer explains how this mix-up happened. It dates back to her birth in 1946 when her mother, Georgia Holt, a 13-year-old girl at the time, was in labor. After an arduous, unmedicated labor at a small hospital in El Centro, California, a nurse asked her mother what name she planned to give her newborn. Without a clear idea, Holt settled on Cheryl, inspired by actress Lana Turner, but also included Cherilyn as a nod to her mother, Lynda.
Cher humorously recalled her response upon uncovering the truth: “Do you even know my real name, Mom?” Her mother, upon seeing the birth certificate, simply shrugged and explained her state of mind during the chaotic moment of childbirth.
Cher officially changed her name in 1979 to just “Cher,” dropping not only Cheryl but also multiple surnames from her past, including Sarkisian, LaPiere, Bono, and Allman, which she acquired through her family life and marriages.
In addition to the name changes, Cher’s memoir touches on her relationship with her mother, who sadly passed away in December 2022 at the age of 96. Cher often reflected on the lessons learned from her mother, gracefully accepting that while Holt may not have offered direct advice, her experiences served as a significant influence on Cher’s life.
Cher also reminisced about her childhood and her mother’s charm, with memories of her mother’s beauty and glamorous presence leaving a lasting impression. Despite being a “strong-headed” child, Cher acknowledged the respect she had for her mother.
“Cheryl: The Memoir, Part One” adds a personal layer to Cher’s already storied life by revealing tender moments and highlighting the deep bond she shared with her mother. It serves as not only a window into her past but also a reminder of the significance of names and identities in our lives.
In this memoir, fans are reminded of Cher’s resilience and relatability, reaffirming her status as a beloved icon while shedding light on the powerful stories that shape who we are. The book is now available at retailers, inviting readers to dive into the extraordinary life of one of music’s greatest legends.