Chaz Bono marries longtime friend in Hollywood celebration

Chaz Bono, the 57‑year‑old trans son of Cher, has married his partner of nine years, Shara Blue Mathes, in a glamorous ceremony at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel on 8 March. The couple, who first met as teenagers 40 years ago at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute, rekindled their connection in 2017 and have been together ever since.

In an Instagram post shared on 13 March, Bono reflected on the extraordinary full‑circle nature of their relationship, noting that Mathes was the first girl he ever kissed. He described her as his partner, best friend and “the love of my life,” saying the pair feel “safer and stronger together.”

The “Hollywood glam formal” wedding featured deep‑toned floral arrangements in purple, black and red. Bono wore a classic black tuxedo, while Mathes opted for a lace gown paired with white platform sneakers. According to media reports, the ceremony included a playful moment when Bono dipped Mathes after exchanging vows, with Cher seated in the front row.

Mathes, who previously worked for the HIV non‑profit Housing Works and is mother to a 25‑year‑old son, posted a video of their first dance online. Bono, who came out as trans in 2009, has since been an active advocate for LGBTQ rights through his work with the Human Rights Campaign and GLAAD. His career includes starring roles in the documentaries Becoming Chaz and Disclosure, as well as appearances in multiple seasons of American Horror Story.

Cher has spoken openly about her initial fears when her son came out as trans, later saying the two now share a stronger relationship than ever.
Bono’s wedding offers a joyful reminder of trans visibility, love and longevity—powerful counter‑narratives amid ongoing global backlash against trans rights.