Cher Following her 2014 health scare, Cher returns to the Las Vegas stage in fine form.
AFTER A HEALTH SCARE, THE POP DIVA TRIUMPHANTLY RETURNS TO THE STAGE
“Women should never think they have a sell-by date.” — Cher
As she descended from the heavens in a huge Afro wig and a glittery, feather-adorned Bob Mackie gown, Cher belted out her hit “Woman’s World” on the first night of her latest show at Las Vegas’ Monte Carlo Resort and Casino on Feb. 8. When her opening number was done, the singer playfully prodded her adoring fans about their raucous cheers: “Is this because you’re in awe of my immense talent,” she asked, “or are you just astonished that I’m here?”
It was actually a legitimate question: The music legend, 70, was forced to stop touring in 2014 due to a potentially deadly virus that threatened her kidneys and heart. “I am totally devastated,” she said at the time, but she was determined to overcome the setback. “I didn’t want to be finished,” she said. Now Cher’s doing a series of shows at the Monte Carlo and at Washington, D.C.’s Theater at MGM National Harbor — her first in nearly three years. Still, she knows she has to take great care of herself to stay healthy.
STRONG ENOUGH
Vitamins, supplements and regular exercise are key to Cher’s approach, and the singer feels great. “The rehearsals themselves are a workout, and she never complains. She’s a pro!” an insider tells Closer.A second insider adds that Cher easily keeps up with backup dancers that are almost 50 years younger.
She’s also not performing more than two nights in a row and is scheduling breaks of at least three weeks between her residencies. And the big secret to her recent revival? “Believe it or not, she drinks a lot of Dr Pepper,” the first insider says. “She swears it makes her sing better!”
In addition to her real doctor (who’s asked her to cut back on the soft drink), the singer’s mother, Georgia Holt, is also regularly checking in to make sure she’s not overdoing it. “Cher’s mom is the most concerned about her health,” the first insider says, and Cher listens to her advice. “They’re like best friends,” the insider adds.
And just like her mom — who still looks gorgeous at 90! — Cher seems to have, well, turned back time. “I’m still here,” Cher says. “I’m still going. I’m still rocking!” —Ron Kelly