In a lawsuit filed on Wednesday, Cher is alleging that the widow of former partner and husband Sonny Bono – Rep. Mary Bono – is withholding royalties from 1960s hits that include “I Got You Babe” and “The Beat Goes On.”
Following their divorce back in 1975, Sonny and Cher agreed to split revenue from the songs they recorded together. Cher’s attorneys allege that in recent years, Sonny’s fourth wife and widow Mary has undone Cher’s ownership of those rights and royalties.
Sonny and Cher Bono were married back in 1964 and, in addition to their widely popular music, starred in a variety show on CBS called “The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour.”
By the mid-1970s their career together faded, but each were able to find success on their own, as Cher began starring in movies like “Mask” and “Moonstruck” while Sonny found his success as a politician in California as mayor of Palm Springs from 1988-1992. He was succeeded by his now widow, Mary Bono, who served until 2013.
Cher is seeking at least $1 million in damages from the royalties she feels she’s owed. The suit was filed in Los Angeles federal court.