In a deeply personal and heartfelt interview with The Guardian, legendary singer and actress Cher opened up about her growing fears for the future of America and the well-being of the transgender community—issues that strike close to home for the iconic star. Her candid thoughts reveal the weight she carries, not only as a public figure but as a mother of a transgender son, Chaz Bono.
Cher has never shied away from political discussions, especially during and after Donald Trump’s presidency. She has been an outspoken critic of Trump’s actions, values, and leadership style, but her most recent remarks carry a tone of genuine concern. When asked about the possibility of Trump returning to the White House, Cher didn’t hold back. “If he gets in, who knows? This time I will leave [the country],” she said, expressing the emotional toll that his re-election would bring. She even admitted that the anxiety during the last election cycle nearly gave her an ulcer—a clear sign of how deeply she feels about the future direction of the nation.
But Cher’s concerns go far beyond political frustration. Her advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community has always been rooted in personal experience. As the mother of Chaz, who transitioned publicly in the late 2000s, Cher has been on a journey of understanding and unconditional love. That journey has evolved into fierce activism, especially now, as the rights of trans individuals face unprecedented challenges.
With nearly 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills introduced across the United States, many of which directly target trans people—especially youth—Cher is worried. She questions the long-term intentions behind these legislative efforts and is unsure what the future holds for people like her son. “I don’t know what their eventual plan is for trans people. I don’t put anything past them,” she said, clearly alarmed by the increasing hostility she sees.
Cher believes that the trans community must remain united and vigilant in the face of these challenges. Her love for Chaz and her desire to protect others like him fuels her passion for justice. “I feel so much for this community because I know what they’re up against,” she emphasized, urging society to stand with transgender individuals and push back against hate and discrimination.
Aside from her political and social concerns, Cher also touched on her Armenian heritage and her sorrow over the ongoing tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan. As someone with deep cultural roots, she has used her platform to raise awareness about the conflict, highlighting the suffering of her ancestral homeland.
Despite the heaviness of these issues, Cher has continued to pour her creativity into her work. She recently released a Christmas album—a long-awaited dream that came to life this year. The album, featuring collaborations with fellow legends like Stevie Wonder and Cyndi Lauper, is a joyful and eclectic celebration with just a few sentimental notes. “I wanted to make a Cher Christmas album, but I didn’t know how to do it,” she admitted. But with her usual determination and flair, she delivered a collection that both uplifts and entertains.
Through it all, Cher’s authenticity and unapologetic voice continue to resonate with fans around the world. She’s more than a pop icon or an Oscar-winning actress—she’s a mother, a fighter, and an advocate. Her passion for justice, especially when it comes to protecting her son and the transgender community, shows the powerful intersection between the personal and the political.
At 77, Cher remains as bold and outspoken as ever, using her platform to speak up for those who are too often silenced. Her message is clear: America must do better—because lives, futures, and freedoms are at stake.
