Cher reflects on her romance with Gene Simmons, then reveals the moment he said, ‘I love you’

Cher opens up about her whirlwind romance with the KISS bassist Gene Simmons in her new memoir, “Cher: The Memoir, Part One.” The 78-year-old star reveals fresh insights into their relationship, which spanned from 1977 to 1979, detailing their unique bond despite its unconventional nature.

The couple first crossed paths at a reception for the president Gerald Fordhosted by Neil Bogartmanager of Cher’s record company. When Cher was introduced to Simmons, he humorously mistook him for a British actress Jean Simmons. But by the end of the night, she was captivated by his charm.

© Michael Ochs Archive

Their relationship started with memorable gestures. After Simmons drove Cher home, he returned the next day with KISS merchandise for her son, Chaz Bono. The couple’s first official date was at a Tubes concert, but Simmons, known for his big persona, flirted with both Cher and her friend. The next day, he called to apologize – a move that could have ended the relationship, but fate had other plans.

Even while traveling in Japan, Simmons couldn’t stay away as he racked up an extravagant $2,800 phone bill to talk to Cher. During one of these calls, he surprised her by declaring his love. “That’s when he blurted out that he loved me,” writes the iconic singer and actress. “We hadn’t even kissed. We’d only been out once before he left. What’s with these men?”

A liberated love

After Cher split up Gregg Allman in 1979 she began dating Simmons. Despite their deep connection, Cher describes their relationship as unconventional. In one PEOPLE interview, she called it “the best relationship I’ve ever had with a human,” while also admitting that they weren’t completely monogamous.

“I’m going through a very liberated phase right now,” Cher said. “I think I have a very masculine attitude to dating… Gene might spend time with another woman and stay the night, but he wants her gone in the morning so he can get on with his day .”

© Michael Ochs Archive

For her part, Cher revealed that she only sought out other men for companionship, confirming: “Gene is the only one I’m into. All my relationships are serious. I don’t walk around.”

Simmons, meanwhile, echoed Cher’s sentiments in the interview, calling her his “first love” and marveling at her character. “Cher is an immaculate soul who has never done any harm to anyone,” he said.

An unconventional ending

Although their love story was passionate, it ended when Simmons left Cher for another music legend, Diana Ross. Despite the heartbreak, Cher has fond memories of their time together, and their relationship remains an integral chapter in her storied life.

Cher’s memoir captures this high-profile romance and reflects her extraordinary journey through fame, love and reinvention. For fans, it provides an intimate look into her relationship and the enduring strength that has defined her decades-long career.