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Based on the smash-hit stage musical, Mamma Mia! burst out onto the movie scene a decade ago to showcase the hits of ABBA. Ten years later, the star-studded cast is back to pick up the story of Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) as she sets out on her next big adventure: motherhood.

There’s a surprise addition to the cast: Sophie’s grandmother, played by the iconic Cher. (“How can we resist her?”) Here, the 72-year-old spills on the film, parenting, and traveling to Australia.

TV Week: In Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again you play a very glam granny. What was that like?

Cher: I don’t have any grandchildren – I wish I did! But I think grandparents are more fun than parents, because they think you’re perfect and adorable and let you get away with anything. But my character in the film isn’t so welcome.

TV Week: How much of yourself did you bring to this role?

Cher: Mamma Mia was one of the most terrifying experiences I’ve ever had. I didn’t like my dialogue and said to the guys [the writers], “You don’t know how to be this woman – but I know her, so you need to let me write stuff.” Not surprisingly, we didn’t get off to a great start!

TV Week: You’re not a conventional mom yourself. Has that been hard on your children?

Cher: I’ve been famous their whole lives and it’s been a pain for them [Elijah Blue and Chaz Bono]. But they know who I am and that the outside personality doesn’t have much to do with me or them. When I’m at home, I’m in sweatpants and no make-up.

TV Week: Would you ever consider stepping back from show business and having a “normal” life?

Cher: I’ve always worked easily and my recovery time is nothing. I didn’t even know I was 40 until I was 60. Now, I’m touring Australia later this year, which I wasn’t planning at all. That was a lovely surprise.