Cher Once Tried To Convince Winona Ryder Not To Marry Johnny Depp

Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder were the most talked about couple of the early ’90s. The public was fascinated by their relationship, and their whirlwind romance repeatedly made headlines. After only five months of dating, Depp presented Ryder with a diamond ring. To further solidify his devotion to her, the Pirates of the Caribbean actor got a tattoo on his bicep which said: “Winona Forever.”

Yet despite how perfect their relationship seemed, Ryder’s close friend Cher tried to convince her not to marry Depp. Keep reading to find out why.

Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder were opposites

Depp and Ryder’s relationship was so attractive to the public because of how different their public images were. Ryder was known for her virginal innocence and was regarded as “America’s sweetheart.” Meanwhile, Depp had more of a bad boy reputation, with his array of tattoos and knack for trashing his movie trailers. Yet perhaps their differences made them even more into each other.

But regardless of their polarizing personalities, the actors were absolutely crazy for each other.

Yet even though they seemed like a match made in heaven, the famous singer-songwriter Cher felt like they were making a huge mistake by getting married.

Cher warned Winona Ryder against marrying Johnny Depp

Cher and Ryder became very close after co-starring in the 1990 film, Mermaids. The singer helped the then-18-year-old Ryder navigate her way through Hollywood, teaching her to avoid the tabloids and gossip columns. Yet, at the same time, she tried to advise the young actress against her engagement. According to Depp’s unauthorized biography, The Secret World of Johnny Depp, Cher tried to warn Ryder against marrying the heartthrob. Why? Because she was way too young at the time.

“Neither one of them knows what they are doing,” said Cher, “but they might as well go through it together.” Optimistically, she adds, “At least she’s going through it with a person who cares a lot about her.”

In response to Cher’s warnings, Ryder said, “She really likes Johnny, so I think she’s pretty happy for me. And although she gives me advice, she doesn’t expect me to take it. I’m going to do what I’m going to do anyway.”

Winona Ryder said that dating Johnny Depp ruined her ‘good girl’ image

According to Ryder in a 1990 interview with LA Times, she used to be known for her innocence. Yet after getting involved with Depp, the tabloids began to tarnish her public image.

“When I was young, I was the sweetheart of the press,” she said. “They loved me but were kind of waiting for me to mess up. I had no skeletons in my closet, no major past to talk about. I wasn’t with anyone and didn’t fall into that Drew Barrymore drug syndrome. Then I became engaged to Johnny, and it’s been bad ever since.”