Chaz Bono is an American writer, actor, musician, and LGBTQ activist who is perhaps best known as the child of famous musicians Sonny Bono and Cher. Over the years, Bono has built his career through various creative and public advocacy endeavors, gaining widespread recognition not just for his work but also for his openness about his gender transition. As of 2024, Chaz Bono net worth is estimated to be around $800 thousand. This detailed article delves into his life, career, family, and other key facts about his journey.
Early Life and Background
Born as Chastity Sun Bono on March 4, 1969, in Los Angeles, California, Chaz is the only child of Sonny & Cher, one of the most iconic pop duos of the 1960s and 1970s. From an early age, Bono was in the public eye, appearing on his parents’ popular variety show, The Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour. Despite growing up in a household of fame and glamor, Chaz’s early life had its complexities, particularly related to his personal identity.
Chaz attended Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City, known for its artistic curriculum. At the age of 13, Bono realized he was gay and came out to his parents at 18, identifying initially as a lesbian. This marked the beginning of a significant period of self-discovery, both personally and publicly.
| Category | Fact |
| Occupation | Musician, Actor, Writer, Activist |
| Nationality | American |
| Age | 47 (as of 2024) |
| Residence | United States |
| Net Worth | $1.5 million (approximate) |
| Birth Name | Chastity Sun Bono |
| Gender Identity | Transgender Male |
| Notable Works | “The End of Innocence” (book), “Becoming Chaz” (documentary) |
| Awards | GLAAD Media Award, Human Rights Campaign Visibility Award |
| Relationship Status | Engaged to Jennifer Elia (2011-2014) |
Career Beginnings: Music and Writing
In 1988, Chaz embarked on his first major professional endeavor by forming the band Ceremony. As a guitarist, percussionist, and vocalist, Chaz played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s sound. Their only album, Hang Out Your Poetry, was released in 1993, but it received mixed reviews and didn’t achieve commercial success. Though the band ultimately disbanded, this was just the beginning of Bono’s artistic journey.
In addition to his work in music, Bono began writing and contributing to the LGBTQ community in the 1990s. In 1995, he publicly came out as a lesbian in an interview with The Advocate, a major LGBTQ magazine. Three years later, he published his first book, Family Outing: A Guide to the Coming Out Process for Gays, Lesbians, and Their Families, offering insights into his own experience and advice for others going through similar journeys.
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Transition and Activism
In 2009, Chaz Bono’s life took a pivotal turn when he began his transition from female to male. He publicly announced his decision to transition, marking a significant moment in his personal journey. His transition was a public process, culminating in his legal name and gender change being finalized in 2010. Bono’s openness about his transition made him a prominent figure in the transgender community, inspiring countless individuals.
Bono documented his journey in the film Becoming Chaz, which premiered at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival. The documentary was later acquired by the Oprah Winfrey Network, bringing his story to an even larger audience. Through the film and his other activism work, Chaz has become an influential figure in the fight for transgender rights, helping to raise awareness about the struggles and triumphs of transitioning.
Television Appearances and Reality TV
Chaz Bono has appeared on several popular TV shows and reality programs, helping him solidify his place in mainstream media. One of his most notable appearances came in 2011 when he joined the cast of Dancing with the Stars during its 13th season. Paired with professional dancer Lacey Schwimmer, Chaz made history as the first openly transgender contestant on the show. Although he didn’t win the competition, his participation was a milestone for transgender representation on national television.
In addition to Dancing with the Stars, Chaz has made guest appearances on various shows, including The Bold and the Beautiful and American Horror Story. His acting career continues to grow, and his role in these shows highlights his versatility as a performer.
Writing and Advocacy
Beyond his television appearances, Chaz Bono is a prolific writer and activist. After his first book Family Outing, Bono published The End of Innocence in 2002, a memoir that explored his experiences with fame, relationships, and his struggles with his identity. His writing often focuses on the LGBTQ community and the importance of acceptance and self-discovery.
As an advocate, Bono has worked with organizations like the Human Rights Campaign and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD). His activism has centered on LGBTQ rights, with a focus on transgender issues. He has used his platform to promote awareness, equality, and education about the trans community, making a lasting impact on the movement for civil rights.
Chaz Bono’s Personal Life
Chaz Bono’s family has played a significant role in his life. As the only child of Cher and Sonny Bono, he has experienced both the benefits and challenges of growing up in the spotlight. His relationship with his parents has been a central part of his personal narrative. While Cher, a global superstar, initially struggled with Bono’s coming out as a lesbian, she has since become one of his biggest supporters.
Unfortunately, Bono’s relationship with his father, Sonny, was more strained. Sonny Bono’s political career as a Republican Congressman in California, along with their diverging political views, caused tension between the two. At the time of Sonny’s death in a skiing accident in 1998, they had not spoken for over a year.
In his romantic life, Chaz had a long-term relationship with Joan Stephens, a friend of Cher’s. Tragically, Stephens passed away from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, leaving a profound impact on Bono. In 2019, Chaz began dating former child star Shara Blues Mathes, and the two have been together since.
Chaz Bono Net Worth
As of 2024, Chaz Bono’s net worth is estimated to be around $800 thousand. His wealth comes from a combination of his career as an actor, musician, writer, and LGBTQ advocate. While not one of the highest earners in Hollywood, Bono’s consistent work in entertainment, coupled with his advocacy, has solidified his place as a respected figure in both the industry and the LGBTQ community.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chaz Bono has built a remarkable career as an actor, musician, and activist, Chaz Bono net worth of $800 thousand. His journey from childhood fame as the child of Cher and Sonny Bono to becoming a leading voice in the transgender community has been both inspiring and influential. Chaz’s openness about his transition and his work in LGBTQ activism has made a lasting impact, helping to bring awareness and support to many. His resilience, talent, and dedication continue to define his legacy in the entertainment industry and beyond.
FAQs About Chaz Bono Net Worth
What is Chaz Bono net worth?
- As of 2024, Chaz Bono net worth is estimated to be $800 thousand.
What is Chaz Bono famous for?
- Chaz Bono is known for being a writer, actor, musician, and LGBTQ activist, as well as the child of Sonny Bono and Cher. He also gained fame for his participation in Dancing with the Stars.
When did Chaz Bono transition?
- Chaz Bono began his gender transition in 2009 and legally completed it in 2010.
What is Chaz Bono’s height?
- Chaz Bono is 5 feet 6 inches (168 cm) tall.
Who is Chaz Bono’s partner?
- As of 2024, Chaz Bono is in a relationship with former child star Shara Blues Mathes.