Cher and Gene Simmons: A Rock-Fueled Romance

In the realm of rock ‘n’ roll, where legendary personalities and iconic figures often collide, some relationships stand out for their unique mix of chemistry, rebellion, and passion. One such relationship was the whirlwind romance between Cher, the eternal pop diva, and Gene Simmons, the larger-than-life bassist of the legendary band KISS. In her new memoir, Cher: The Memoir, Part One, the 78-year-old star reflects on their two-year love affair, which was filled with romance, rock music, and an undeniable connection.

The story began in an unexpected setting: a reception hosted by Cher’s then record label boss, Neil Bogart. Cher recalls her first encounter with Simmons with a sense of humor, admitting that she initially mistook him for the British actress Jean Simmons. However, it didn’t take long for the magnetic personality of Gene Simmons to win her over. By the end of the evening, she was impressed by his charm and the energy he exuded.
Simmons, ever the confident and bold figure, wasted no time in making his feelings known. The next day, he showed up at Cher’s doorstep with a gift for her son, Chaz Bono—KISS merchandise that was sure to leave a lasting impression. Their first official date took place at a concert by The Tubes, but it was far from the picture-perfect romantic evening one might expect. Simmons, ever the flirt, directed his attention not just to Cher but also to her friend, something that initially left Cher less than impressed. However, the dynamic would soon change in a significant way.

While Cher was on tour in Japan, Simmons, determined to let his feelings be known, made a phone call that would rack up a whopping $2,800 bill. In that long-distance conversation, he professed his love for Cher, a moment that marked a turning point in their relationship. As Cher recounts, it was a declaration that solidified their bond and set the stage for a passionate affair.

Their relationship gained serious momentum following Cher’s tumultuous split from Gregg Allman in 1979. The pair began spending more time together, and their chemistry was undeniable. In a joint interview with PEOPLE, Cher opened up about her feelings for Simmons, describing him as “the best relationship I’ve ever had with a human being.” However, Cher also acknowledged that their relationship wasn’t strictly monogamous. As she explained, “I’m in a very liberated phase. Gene can spend time with another woman, but he always wants her to leave in the morning so he can get on with his day.” Cher herself enjoyed the freedom to explore relationships with other men, but she made it clear that Simmons was the one who truly mattered to her.

For Simmons, Cher was a source of admiration and respect. He spoke of her fondly, calling her “his first love” and describing her as “a pure soul who has never hurt anyone.” His affection for her was clear, and their relationship seemed to be built on a foundation of mutual admiration and respect.

However, as is often the case in the world of rock stars and celebrities, the romance eventually came to an end. Simmons’ attention shifted to another music legend, Diana Ross, and the relationship between him and Cher slowly fizzled out. Despite the breakup, Cher looks back on this period of her life with fondness and appreciation. In her memoir, she reflects on their time together as a significant chapter in her journey, filled with both joy and complexity.

The brief yet impactful romance between Cher and Gene Simmons remains one of rock’s most fascinating love stories. Their relationship was more than just a fling—it was an intersection of rock ‘n’ roll royalty, personalities that could light up any room, and a love that, even though short-lived, left an indelible mark on both of their lives. As Cher looks back on their time together, it’s clear that their love story was not just about passion, but also about two stars finding a connection that transcended their extraordinary lives.
In the pages of Cher: The Memoir, Part One, this chapter serves as a testament to how rock, love, and larger-than-life personalities can intertwine, creating a story that will forever be etched in the annals of music history.