Cher Opens Up About Her Relationship And The Online Backlash

Age gaps in relationships have always sparked debates, especially when they involve public figures. Society seems fascinated by the idea of two people at different stages of life finding a connection, especially when the woman is the older one.

From the outside, it’s easy to criticize or make assumptions, but behind every headline are simply two people who enjoy each other’s company. And that’s exactly what Cher wants the world to understand.

Three years after first going public with her much younger partner, Alexander “AE” Edwards, Cher has finally decided to address the backlash. The 79-year-old music icon met Edwards, a music producer, at Paris Fashion Week in September 2022.

What started as casual texting and a few dates soon turned into a full-blown relationship. By November of that year, they were photographed hand in hand in Los Angeles, confirming what fans had been guessing for weeks.

From the beginning, the couple’s 40-year age difference drew plenty of attention, and not all of it positive. While Cher openly defended their relationship with the line “love doesn’t know math,” critics couldn’t seem to let it go.

One Reddit user commented, “I’m sorry, but he looks like her son,” while another wrote, “Forty years are forty years. It’s weird, no matter the gender.”

Cher laughs off criticism and says she’s just enjoying life with her younger boyfriend.

Now, during an appearance on CBS Mornings with Gayle King, Cher decided to speak her mind. When asked if she was aware of how much online chatter her relationship has caused, she didn’t hesitate. “Whatever,” she said flatly, proving that she’s long past caring about strangers’ opinions.

“They’re not living my life,” she added. “Nobody knows what goes on between us, but we just have a blast.”

That kind of confidence is classic Cher: unbothered, direct, and unapologetically herself. When King asked how Edwards feels about their 40-year age gap, the singer said he doesn’t think about it much.

“Thank God,” she said with a laugh. “He just says, ‘You know, you get older, but your spirit is younger.’”

For Cher, what matters most isn’t how the relationship looks from the outside, but how it feels day to day.

“We laugh all the time,” she said. “I just love him. I think he’s beautiful. He’s really talented.”

That talent isn’t something she tosses around lightly.

“He’s one of the most talented persons I’ve ever met,” she added proudly.

Understanding Age Gaps in Relationships

Dr. Helen Fisher, a renowned biological anthropologist, highlights that age gaps in relationships often provoke societal scrutiny, particularly when the woman is older. She explains that such dynamics can challenge traditional norms, creating a space for unique connections to flourish.

Fisher's research suggests that emotional intelligence and compatibility are often more significant than age in determining relationship success. Couples can mitigate external judgments by fostering open communication and mutual respect, which helps build resilience against societal pressures.

Cher says her boyfriend and his son brought joy and laughter back into her life.

The Burlesque star also talked about how Edwards brought a new kind of energy into her life, thanks in part to his six-year-old son, Slash, whom he shares with model Amber Rose. Cher couldn’t help but smile as she described how this little boy had brightened her days.

“I used to say, ‘God, give me a toddler and a man,’” she joked. “And I got exactly what I asked for.”

Her affection for both of them was clear.

“He’s so funny. He’s so smart. He’s a delight,” she said, sounding genuinely happy.

Cher has never been one to fit neatly into anyone’s expectations. Whether it’s her music, her fashion, or her relationships, she’s always done things her own way.

This time is no different. She’s not here to explain or justify who she loves; she's just here to live her life and have fun doing it. And judging by the smile on her face, that’s exactly what she’s doing.

Furthermore, Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist, emphasizes that understanding the motivations behind age-gap relationships can be crucial. She notes that these dynamics often involve shared values, goals, and emotional maturity, which can enhance couples' connections.

To improve relationship dynamics, Solomon recommends establishing a foundation of trust and transparency, allowing partners to express their feelings without fear of judgment. This approach not only strengthens the relationship but also equips couples to navigate external opinions more effectively.

Understanding the Deeper Patterns

The conversation surrounding age gaps in relationships is complex, often steeped in cultural narratives and personal biases. As noted by numerous experts, understanding the emotional foundation of these relationships is essential. Dr. Julie Gottman emphasizes that mutual respect and open communication can create a resilient partnership that withstands societal scrutiny.

Ultimately, fostering deeper connections and prioritizing emotional compatibility over societal expectations allows couples to thrive in their unique relationships. By embracing this mindset, individuals can cultivate a more profound understanding of love that transcends age.