Cher’s new memoir offers an intimate glimpse into her early life, recounting tales of Hollywood glamour, youthful rebellion, and an unforgettable brush with a rising star. In one of the book’s most surprising anecdotes, the “If I Could Turn Back Time” singer details a chance encounter with actor Warren Beatty, now 87, during his early career.
The incident, which unfolded on Sunset Boulevard in the 1960s, paints a vivid picture of a young, fearless Cher navigating her way through life and Hollywood’s glittering landscape.
A Near Collision Sparks an Iconic Connection
The story begins with Cher, then a teenage aspiring singer, driving her stepfather’s Buick along the iconic Sunset Boulevard. A white Lincoln convertible abruptly cut her off, prompting her to tail the car into the parking lot of Schwab’s Pharmacy, a well-known hangout for celebrities at the time.
Cher recounts jumping out of her car to confront the driver, unaware that the man behind the wheel was Beatty, fresh off his acclaimed role in Splendor in the Grass opposite Natalie Wood. She describes him as “drop-dead gorgeous” with an unforgettable smile that made her pause mid-confrontation.
A Night to Remember
After exchanging a few words, Beatty invited Cher over to his Beverly Hills home, and despite it being close to her curfew, she agreed. The evening took a lighthearted turn as the two snacked on cheese and crackers before Beatty leaned in for a kiss. Cher recalls the moment vividly, describing her mixed emotions of surprise and curiosity.
The night culminated in a swim in Beatty’s pool, where Cher wore none other than Natalie Wood’s bathing suit—a detail that adds a layer of Hollywood nostalgia to the encounter. She later drove home in what she describes as “a happy daze” at 4 a.m., only to face her mother’s displeasure at her late return.
Beatty Calls Back
The story didn’t end there. The next day, Beatty called Cher at home, much to her mother’s astonishment. Cher fondly remembers her mom’s reaction, recalling how she “melted” upon realizing she was speaking to the burgeoning movie star. The two saw each other for two more dates, but their brief romance fizzled out as Cher’s future husband and collaborator, Sonny Bono, entered her life.
Netizens React
Fans of both Cher and Beatty took to social media to express their awe over the unexpected tale. Twitter user @RetroHollywood gushed, “Cher and Warren Beatty swimming in Natalie Wood’s swimsuit? That’s peak Golden Age Hollywood drama!” Another fan, @StarstruckEra, commented, “Cher’s life is a movie in itself—who else can casually drop a story like this?”
A Glimpse Into Hollywood’s Past
Cher’s memoir isn’t just a collection of personal stories—it’s a window into a bygone era of Hollywood, filled with larger-than-life personalities and unforgettable moments. Her recollection of Beatty provides a candid and humorous look at her younger years, showcasing her unapologetic spirit and knack for finding herself at the center of extraordinary experiences.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.