New York Rangers legend Ron Duguay, who died at age 69, once shared an extraordinary tale from his days on the New York social scene: a night in 1982 that led him to Gene Simmons' townhouse and bed with Cher.
Duguay recounted the experience on the debut episode of The Post's Rangers podcast, "Up In The Blue Seats," in 2019. He described how, after a Rangers victory over the Islanders, he went to celebrate at the iconic Studio 54.
While at the club, Duguay was approached by Liza Minnelli, who expressed her admiration for him and the Rangers. Minnelli invited Duguay to a party at her home later that evening and offered to introduce him to Cher, who was also present at the club.
"If you know Cher, if she wants something, she goes after it," Duguay said of Cher's approach. He recalled Cher taking his arm and asking if he danced. They proceeded to dance together, a moment captured by The Post's Vernon Shibla, showing Cher resting her head on Duguay's shoulder.
Following their dance, Duguay, Cher, and Minnelli returned to Minnelli's apartment. After a lengthy wait for Minnelli, Cher grew impatient and decided to leave with Duguay. They hailed a taxi to Cher's residence.
Upon arriving at Cher's townhouse, Duguay noticed gold records on the walls. Cher then revealed they were at Gene Simmons' house. "Next thing you know, we’re sitting on his bed. And that’s where the story stops," Duguay stated, implying an intimate encounter but maintaining his personal boundaries regarding specifics.
Duguay, who played for the Rangers from 1977 to 1983, was known for his flamboyant personality and prominent social life during his tenure with the team. His career with the Rangers concluded when he was traded to Detroit in June 1983.