On Tuesday, November 19, music legend Cher appeared on NBC’s Today show to talk about her new book, Cher: The Memoir, Part 1. But during her interview with host Hoda Kotb, Cher accidentally said a bad word on live TV, surprising everyone.
The moment happened when Kotb asked Cher about advice she had received from Lucille Ball after her 1975 divorce from Sonny Bono. Cher warned Kotb that her answer wasn’t suitable for TV and asked if they would “bleep” it out. Kotb reassured her, “We’ll bleep it!”
Feeling it was safe, Cher shared Ball’s blunt advice: “F— him. You’re the one with the talent!” But when the word wasn’t censored, Cher quickly pointed out, “Well, you said I could!”
Kotb laughed and tried to make light of the moment, saying, “I should have bleeped it myself!”
Despite the slip-up, Cher talked openly about her life and her early career. She shared how she and Sonny Bono met when she was only 16 years old and he was 27. They became famous with songs like I Got You Babe.
However, after their marriage ended, Cher said Sonny left her with very little. “He took it all,” she explained, mentioning that she only had a car and some clothes left. She also revealed how she had no control over their finances and signed business papers without understanding what they meant.
Cher said she still wonders why Sonny decided to take her money. “I’d ask him, ‘What was the moment you thought it’d be right to take all my money?’” she said. According to Cher, Sonny never gave a clear answer.
When Kotb asked if Cher cared about making public mistakes, the star replied, “I think I used to, but I don’t anymore. What are they going to do to me now? I’m 78!”
Cher also talked about the challenges she faced while growing up and how those struggles shaped her into the strong person she is today.
Cher’s new book, Cher: The Memoir, Part 1, tells more about her life, her career, and her relationships. Fans who want to learn more about her incredible journey can find it in stores now.
You can catch Today weekdays on NBC starting at 7 a.m. ET.
