musical partner. The two met when Cher was just 16 and built a successful career together, producing hits like Baby Don’t Go and I Got You Babe. Their relationship, both personal and professional, was filled with ups and downs, but it also brought them their only child, Chaz, born as Chastity Bono in 1969.
Growing up in the limelight, Chaz made frequent appearances on The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour. However, from an early age, he struggled to relate to traditional gender roles. By 13, he realized he was gay, and at 18, he came out to his parents. While this was difficult for Cher at first, she later became an LGBTQ+ icon and advocate.
Years later, Chaz took an even bigger step—his gender transition. In 2010, a California court approved his request for a legal name and gender change. His journey was documented in Becoming Chaz, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival and aired on the Oprah Winfrey Network, giving the public an inside look at his transition.
Cher initially found the transition difficult. She admitted that hearing Chaz’s old voicemail message was emotional, but over time, she came to understand that nothing had truly changed about her child except his outward identity. As she put it, “You don’t really lose them. They just take a different shape.”
After transitioning, Chaz also focused on his health. He struggled with obesity for years, but his transition motivated him to adopt a healthier lifestyle. After appearing on Dancing with the Stars, he lost a significant amount of weight, which he maintained through diet and exercise. Though he faced challenges with excess skin, he remained committed to his fitness journey, cutting out most grains and focusing on whole foods. Cher has often praised his dedication, calling his transformation inspiring.
Chaz’s personal life has also garnered media attention. He was previously engaged to Jennifer Elia, but they parted ways in 2011. In 2017, he found love again with Shara Mathes, a former actress turned social worker. The couple keeps their relationship private, but they have been together for over six years. Shara has been warmly welcomed by Chaz’s family, even joining them for Cher’s mother’s birthday celebration.
Today, Chaz continues to thrive in both his personal and professional life. He has acted in shows like American Horror Story: Roanoke and The Bold and the Beautiful, proving that his talents extend beyond his famous lineage.
Chaz Bono’s journey is a testament to resilience, self-acceptance, and bravery. His story inspires countless others to embrace their true selves, no matter the obstacles. If his courage can encourage even one person to live authentically, then his journey has made a lasting impact.