Cher, the iconic American singer and actress, has long held a deep affection for France, sharing her emotional ties and aspirations during a recent interview with Le Parisien. The 78-year-old, known for her unforgettable hits like "Believe," unveiled her heartfelt connection to the country and her extraordinary encounters with influential French personalities.
During the interview, Cher spoke fondly of her experiences dining with the legendary French actress Brigitte Bardot. "Brigitte Bardot m’a invitée plusieurs fois à dîner," she recalled, shedding light on their memorable outings. One particularly special evening stood out, taking place in the 1980s when Bardot took Cher to a secluded garden with just the two of them and a guitarist. Cher described the moment she met Bardot, stating, "Elle se tenait contre un mur et je me disais: 'Oh mon Dieu, je suis avec Brigitte Bardot!'" (She was standing against a wall and I was thinking: 'Oh my God, I'm with Brigitte Bardot!').
Cher's admiration for France runs deep. She reminisced about her vacations there, saying, "J'ai plein de bons souvenirs en France. J’y suis allée en vacances toute ma vie […] On se sent libre quand on est chez vous" (I have many good memories of France. I have been there on vacation all my life […] You feel free when you are at home). Whether she was basking on the beaches of the Côte d'Azur or exploring the artistic vibrancy of Paris, Cher has cultivated countless joyful experiences throughout her life.
But her connection to France goes beyond memories and friendships. Cher has revealed her hopes of being buried at the famed Père-Lachaise cemetery located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris. She expressed her desire sincerely, stating, "Je veux vraiment [être enterrée en France] mais je pense que ce n’est pas possible quand on ne vit pas à Paris" (I really want to be buried [in France] but I think it is not possible when you do not live in Paris).
Cher's longing for Père-Lachaise is steeped in deep reverence. "Le Père-Lachaise est un endroit incroyable, [...] je me suis dit 'Je dois absolument être enterrée ici'" (Père-Lachaise is an incredible place, [...] I told myself I absolutely have to be buried here). Even though she recognizes the challenges of fulfilling this wish, she does not lose hope, adding, "J’espère que mon vœu se réalisera" (I hope my wish will come true).
Celebrated for her work and effervescent personality, Cher recorded one of her albums at a château near Bordeaux. Reflecting on those experiences, she stated, "Qu'est-ce qu’on s’est amusé !" (How much fun we had!). Cher's heart remains captivated by the charm of France, where every corner seems to evoke bittersweet nostalgia.
The singer’s affection for the land of baguettes and brioches inspires not just her desire for interment but also her rich interactions. Cher has mingled with French celebrities throughout her career, creating lasting memories with unforgettable figures like Johnny Hallyday and Sylvie Vartan. Yet, her bond with Bardot is perhaps the most emblematic of her experiences.
Through her reflections, Cher reveals how her visits to France have shaped her life. It's not merely about famous dinners and glamorous encounters; it’s about feeling at home. Cher’s longing to be laid to rest at Père-Lachaise symbolizes this deep connection—a wish rooted firmly within her heart.
With her memoirs just released, Cher’s talks of France draw audiences to appreciate the nuances of her celebrity life intertwined with her emotional ties to the country. She radiates freedom tied to her experiences, and through every story, she paints France as more than just one of her many travel destinations; it’s her sanctuary.
While legalities may restrict her choice of resting place, Cher remains effervescent, bursting with hope and nostalgia. After all, life is filled with surprises, and sometimes the most heartfelt wishes have the potential to manifest when least expected.
Whether it’s her past elegant dinners or alluring memories engraved as part of her legacy, Cher’s connection to France will live on. Sometime soon, before our eyes, Cher just might find her final peace among beloved artistic muses at Père-Lachaise.
