03/28/2026
Happy Birthday to my friend, Chad Michaels 👑
I met Chad in 2013, not long after moving to San Diego, when Detox and Chad popped my West Coast Cherry with my first shoot in LA, at Rage nightclub for the Dreamgirls. It was life-changing. At the time, I was coming out of a 14-year relationship and doing my best to just keep it together.
And then then came Chad.
Polished. Precise. Effortless. Slightly intimidating… until you realize he’s also one of the most generous, grounded, and quietly supportive people in the room.
For over a decade, I’ve had the privilege of photographing someone who doesn’t just perform excellence—he lives it. Yes, the Cher illusion is legendary. Yes, the accolades are well-earned. But what stands out even more, is how much he gives to everyone around him… consistently, without needing credit.
That kind of presence? You can’t fake it. (Even if you can absolutely nail Cher better than Cher!😜🤗🙌)
Those early years, standing behind my camera with Chad and the Dreamgirls, gave me direction when I didn’t have much. They kept me creating when it would’ve been easier to walk away.
Chad, you’ve been a constant, a standard, and a reminder of what showing up with heart actually looks like. Thank you.🙏🏻
Happy Birthday, my friend. I Love you. ❤️Kristofer
