Cher’s Son Chaz Bono Gushes About the Singer: “She’s a Down-to-Earth Mom” (EXCLUSIVE)

In an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly, Chaz Bono opens up about his ever-changing parent-child relationship with his pop diva mom Cher, 71. “I’m always going to be her kid, but she does say those things where I’m like, ‘OK, I’m 48, but thank you,’” her son jokes to Closer.

Although she can still be an overbearing mom, Chaz says their relationship is evolving. “She’s gotten older,” he explains, “and now she depends on me for things.” After all, despite Cher’s fame, fortune, and flamboyant style, the superstar is just like everybody else. “She’s a very down-to-earth person,” Chaz insists to Closer.

Chaz also shares that his mom is his biggest fan. An aspiring actor since the age of 14, he is now starring on American Horror Story. “She’s a fan of my work,” he beams. “She’s been really encouraging and a great, sympathetic ear,” Chaz tells Closer, adding that he’s grateful for the enduring support his mom’s given him every step of the way – including throughout his 2008 to 2010 gender reassignment.

Born Chastity and raised in the spotlight by Cher and dad Sonny Bono on their Sonny & Cher Comedy Hour, Chaz admits he doesn’t watch old clips of himself on that show. “Generally, transgender people don’t enjoy seeing images of ourselves before our transition,” he explains to Closer. Besides, he’d much rather concentrate on sharing his success with his mom.

For more on Cher and Chaz, pick up the latest issue of Closer Weekly, on newsstands now — and be sure to sign up for our newsletter for exclusive news!