35 Facts About Cherie Currie

Early Life and Family

Cherie Currie's journey began in Encino, California, where she was born into a family with a flair for the arts.

1. Cherie Ann Currie was born to Don Currie and actress Marie Harmon.
2. She has an identical twin sister, Marie Currie, an elder sister, actress Sondra Currie, and a brother, Don Currie Jr.
3. At the age of two, Cherie and her twin sister were given a role on an episode of "My Three Sons," but they froze during filming and their part was cut from the show.
4. Before they rose to fame, they appeared on "American Bandstand" as background dancers.

Rise to Rock Stardom

Cherie's teenage years were anything but ordinary. She became a rock star at an age when most are just starting high school.

5. Cherie Currie joined the all-female rock band the Runaways in 1975, when she was just 15 years old.
6. The Runaways were formed in 1975 by producer Kim Fowley, who discovered Cherie Currie and Joan Jett.
7. Cherie Currie was the lead vocalist of the Runaways, known for her powerful voice and captivating stage presence.
8. During her time with the Runaways, Cherie Currie recorded three albums: The Runaways, Queens of Noise, and Live in Japan.

Solo Career and Acting

After leaving the Runaways, Cherie explored new avenues, including a solo music career and acting.

9. Cherie Currie signed a four-album deal with Mercury Records and released Beauty's Only Skin Deep as a solo artist.
10. She ventured into acting, appearing in films like Foxes (1980) with Jodie Foster, Parasite, Wavelength, Twilight Zone: The Movie, and Rich Girl.
11. In 1980, Cherie Currie starred in the film Foxes, which received strong reviews for her acting debut.
12. Cherie Currie was cast as Brenda in Savage Streets but was replaced by Linda Blair.
13. She was also considered for a part in the 1985 film Explorers, but her drug dependency issues at the time prevented her from participating.
14. Cherie Currie was cast as the lead singer of the fictional band the Dose in This Is Spinal Tap, but her character was cut out of the film.

Memoir and Recognition

Cherie's life story has been one of resilience and triumph, which she shared in her memoir.

15. In 2010, Cherie Currie published her memoir Neon Angel, detailing her experiences with the Runaways and her personal struggles.
16. Cherie Currie was bestowed a Rock Legend Award at the Malibu Music Awards.
17. The Runaways movie helped strengthen Cherie Currie's relationship with former bandmate Joan Jett.

Chainsaw Artistry

Cherie found a unique and unexpected passion in chainsaw carving, showcasing her versatility as an artist.

18. Cherie Currie began her career as a chainsaw artist in 2002.
19. She opened her own gallery in 2005 in Chatsworth, California, showcasing her wood-carving skills.
20. As a chainsaw artist, Cherie Currie has competed in and won awards at three world Chainsaw Art competitions.
21. Cherie Currie's transition to wood carving was inspired by her desire to explore new creative outlets.
22. Cherie Currie continues to act, record, and perform music while maintaining her career as a chainsaw artist.

Personal Life and Advocacy

Cherie's personal life has been marked by both challenges and triumphs, including her advocacy work.

23. Cherie Currie's twin sister, Marie Currie, is also an artist. The two sisters released the album Messin' with the Boys in 1980.
24. Cherie Currie married actor Robert Hays and had a son, Jake, who is an accomplished musician.
25. Cherie Currie has spoken publicly about her struggles with addiction in the 1980s.
26. Beyond her artistic pursuits, Cherie Currie is an animal rights activist.

Influence and Legacy

Cherie's influence extends beyond her music, impacting pop culture and inspiring new generations.

27. Cherie Currie's influence on pop culture extends beyond her music.
28. Cherie Currie has always admired David Bowie and has paid tribute to him in her performances.
29. Cherie Currie has spoken fondly of Kim Fowley, the producer who discovered her and Joan Jett.
30. Cherie Currie has made amends with former bandmate Lita Ford.
31. Cherie Currie has collaborated with Joan Jett on various projects.
32. In recent years, Cherie Currie has embarked on an Australian tour.
33. Cherie Currie and her son Jake are set to embark on an east coast tour in November 2024.
34. An alternative cover photo of Cherie Currie's album Beauty's Only Skin Deep appears in the background of the feature film Rock 'n' Roll High School.
35. Cherie Currie's impact on the music industry is undeniable.

Cherie Currie's Lasting Impact

Cherie Currie's life is a testament to resilience, creativity, and passion. From her early days as the lead vocalist of the Runaways to her current career as a chainsaw artist, she's continually reinvented herself. Her journey through rock 'n' roll stardom, personal struggles, and artistic exploration has left an indelible mark on the music industry and beyond. Cherie's influence extends to pop culture, animal rights activism, and even the world of chainsaw art. Her memoir, Neon Angel, and her various collaborations with former bandmates like Joan Jett and Lita Ford highlight her enduring legacy. Cherie Currie remains an iconic figure, inspiring new generations of musicians and artists with her diverse talents and unwavering spirit. Her story is far from over, and her impact will continue to resonate for years to come.