Cher has revealed details about her contract with ex-husband Sonny Bono, describing it as “involuntary servitude” in her new memoir. The pop icon recalled how, during her divorce from Bono in the 1970s, David Geffen reviewed her agreement and exposed its terms. The contract left her without financial control or ownership of Cher Enterprises, which Bono owned 95%, and restricted her ability to work without his consent.
Cher was devastated, realizing she had no rights to her earnings and was locked into the agreement for two more years. Determined to regain control, she sought advice from Lucille Ball’s lawyer and confronted Bono, demanding an equal share. Though initially resistant, Bono later agreed, allowing Cher to move forward with her solo career. Reflecting on the betrayal, Cher said she still struggles to understand how Bono, once her closest partner, could leave her with so little.