Who Is John Paul Sarkisian?: Everything About Cherilyn Sarkisian’s Father

John Paul Sarkisian is a figure whose legacy may often be overshadowed by the global fame of his daughter, Cherilyn Sarkisian, better known simply as Cher. A legendary figure in her own right, Cher has earned accolades as a singer, actress, and television personality. However, behind every icon lies a complex family history, and John Paul Sarkisian’s life is an integral part of Cher’s story. This article takes a closer look at John Paul Sarkisian’s life, his heritage, and his impact on both Cher’s personal life and her career.

Profile Summary

Early Life and Background

John Paul Sarkisian was born on March 23, 1926, in Oakland, California, to Armenian-American parents, Ghiragos “George” Sarkisian and Siranousch “Blanche” Dilkian. Growing up in a culturally rich Armenian household, John’s early years were shaped by his family’s heritage. He had two sisters, Louise and Elizabeth, and they shared a close family bond. Little is known about his education or childhood activities, but his family background influenced much of his life.

Age and Physical Attribute

John Paul Sarkisian lived to be 58 years old, passing away on January 28, 1985, in Fresno, California. He was an Aries, born in the early part of spring. Despite his connection to the entertainment world through his daughter Cher, he lived a relatively private life. His physical attributes or detailed appearance are not widely documented, as most focus has been on his role as Cher’s father and his troubled personal life.

Education and Career Beginnings

Not much is known about John Paul’s formal education, as details about his schooling are sparse. He began working at an early age, eventually becoming a truck driver. His career as a truck driver involved transporting goods across the country, a job that provided stability but kept him away from the limelight. This profession, though not glamorous, was typical for many in post-WWII America.

Marriage to Jackie Jean Crouch

In 1945, John Paul married Jackie Jean Crouch, later known as Georgia Holt. Their marriage took place in Reno, Nevada, and resulted in the birth of their daughter, Cherilyn Sarkisian, on May 20, 1946. However, their marriage was short-lived, lasting only two years before they divorced in 1947. Though their relationship ended in separation, it was during this time that John Paul became a father to Cher, whose fame would later overshadow his life.

Who Is Jackie Jean Crouch?

Jackie Jean Crouch, also known as Georgia Holt, was an American singer, actress, and model. Born in 1926 in Arkansas, she had a diverse career in entertainment. Despite her struggles early in life, she eventually found success in music and acting, and her influence on Cher’s career is undeniable. Georgia Holt also played a significant role in shaping Cher’s personality and public image, though her marriage to John Paul was short.

The Troubled Relationship with Cher

John Paul Sarkisian’s relationship with his daughter Cher was complicated. Cher did not meet her father until she was 11 years old, and their relationship became strained as she grew older. Cher described her father as charming but troubled, acknowledging his issues with gambling and drug addiction. Their emotional distance led to a toxic relationship, and Cher eventually distanced herself from him as an adult, even disowning him.

The Legal Battle

In the 1980s, the relationship between John Paul and Cher became even more strained when he filed a lawsuit against her. He sued Cher for $4 million in defamation after she publicly described him as a compulsive gambler and heroin addict. While John Paul admitted to some of his past issues, including arrests for bad checks, the lawsuit highlighted the deepening rift between father and daughter. This legal battle further strained their already distant relationship.

Personal Struggles and Addictions

John Paul’s personal life was marked by addiction and legal troubles. He struggled with gambling and heroin addiction, which had a negative impact on his relationships. These issues also led to run-ins with the law, including arrests for bad checks and narcotics. His personal struggles contributed to the distance between him and Cher, as she grew up in an unstable environment shaped by his actions and absence.

Death and Legacy

John Paul Sarkisian passed away on January 28, 1985, at the age of 58. His death occurred in Fresno, California, and he was buried at Fresno Memorial Gardens. While he was not widely known in the public eye, his legacy is primarily connected to his daughter, Cher. Despite their troubled relationship, his life and struggles influenced Cher’s own personal and professional journey, and his impact is still felt today.

Conclusion

John Paul Sarkisian lived a life that, while not famous in its own right, played a crucial role in shaping the legendary career of his daughter, Cher. His personal struggles, troubled relationships, and the complex father-daughter dynamic add layers to the story of the iconic singer. Though he remains a somewhat mysterious figure, his influence on Cher’s life and career is undeniable. Despite the difficulties, John Paul’s legacy endures through Cher, who continues to honor both her triumphs and challenges.

FAQs About John Paul Sarkisian

1. Who was John Paul Sarkisian?
John Paul Sarkisian was the father of Cher, the iconic American singer, actress, and television personality. He was of Armenian descent and played a significant role in the early life of his daughter before his separation from her mother.

2. What is the background of John Paul Sarkisian?
John Paul Sarkisian was born to Armenian immigrants. His background reflects the rich cultural heritage of Armenia. While details about his early life are scarce, his family roots and influence on Cher have been a subject of curiosity for fans and historians.

3. Did John Paul Sarkisian have any other children besides Cher?
Yes, John Paul Sarkisian had one other child, a daughter named Georganne, Cher’s half-sister. However, Georganne has not been in the limelight as much as Cher, and little is known about her public life.

4. What was John Paul Sarkisian’s relationship with Cher?
John Paul Sarkisian’s relationship with Cher was strained. Cher was raised primarily by her mother, Georgia Holt, after her parents’ divorce. Despite this, Cher has mentioned in interviews that she still had a connection with her father, albeit a complex one.

5. How did John Paul Sarkisian influence Cher’s career?
While not directly involved in Cher’s professional life, John Paul Sarkisian’s Armenian heritage and background may have influenced some of Cher’s cultural identity. Cher has often spoken about the complexity of her family dynamics, which shaped her resilience and identity as an entertainer.