Tina Knowles, the mother of global superstar Beyoncé, has opened up about her battle with breast cancer in a heartfelt interview and her newly released memoir, Matriarch: A Memoir. The 71-year-old revealed that she was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer in her left breast after a delayed mammogram appointment revealed two tumors, one of which was cancerous.
Knowles, who has always prioritized her health, expressed disbelief at her diagnosis. "I've always tried to take care of myself. I just … was in disbelief," she shared during an interview with CBS Mornings co-host Gayle King. The American Cancer Society recommends that women over 55 receive mammograms every 1 to 2 years, but Knowles missed her routine screening during the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to her diagnosis being delayed.
In July 2024, doctors discovered the tumors during her rescheduled appointment. One tumor was benign, while the other was malignant. Knowles explained that had she maintained her regular screenings, the cancer might have been detected at Stage 0, when it has not spread beyond the breast tissue. Fortunately, the cancer was slow-growing, and she underwent a lumpectomy in August to remove the tumor.
Reflecting on the emotional support she received from her family, Knowles fondly recalled how Beyoncé, her other daughter Solange, and niece Angie Beyince rallied around her during her hospital stay. "I was nervous," Knowles admitted, but the laughter and joking from her family helped ease her anxiety. "I start laughing. I get out of my head... I thought about the song 'Walk With Me,' which they used to sing all the time," she said, emphasizing the importance of her family's presence during her ordeal.
After the surgery, which also included a breast reduction, Knowles was relieved to learn she was cancer-free. She described her recovery process as a time of reflection and gratitude, stating, "I'm doing great. Cancer-free and incredibly blessed that God allowed me to find it early." She also emphasized the importance of routine screenings, sharing her own experience of forgetting to reschedule her mammogram after it was canceled due to the pandemic. "You cannot play around with that," she warned.
In her memoir, released on April 22, 2025, Knowles details her cancer journey and the lessons learned along the way. She expressed her hope that by sharing her story, she could inspire other women to prioritize their health and stay vigilant with routine screenings. "What scares me now is not making the best of every day that I have left in this life," she reflected.
Knowles also discussed her experience with healthcare professionals, highlighting the significance of seeking second opinions. After her initial consultation with a hospital surgeon, who she felt was dismissive, she opted for a private practice breast surgeon who provided her with options and hope. "I made my decision: I wasn’t going with the hospital surgeon who talked down to me," she recounted. "You deserve second opinions, and it’s your opinion that sets the decision." This message resonates particularly with marginalized communities, as Knowles noted that many people, especially Black individuals, may feel pressured to accept the first doctor they are given, even if they feel mistreated.
Months after her surgery, Knowles faced another challenge when she developed a serious post-surgical infection. Her family urged her to rest, reminding her that her health was more important than any event. Despite the setback, she recovered in time to attend Glamour’s 2024 Women of the Year event in October, where she received an award. "A lot of my life, I just refused to be recognized. I would never take an award. I would never want the attention to me … and this was my saying, 'I deserve this,'" she said during her acceptance speech.
Throughout her speech, Knowles acknowledged the unwavering support of her daughters. "They are my crew, my tribe, my rocks, my ride-or-dies," she declared, expressing her gratitude for their presence during both the highs and lows of her life. This emotional moment underscored the bond she shares with her family, especially in times of crisis.
Oprah Winfrey has endorsed Knowles' memoir, praising her journey and the strength she has shown as a mother and entrepreneur. In a press release, Winfrey remarked, "Some of you might know Tina Knowles as the mother of a superstar — as in Beyoncé — but she is also a highly successful entrepreneur, fashion designer, philanthropist, and now author of this fascinating memoir of her journey to become the global figure she is today." Knowles expressed her excitement over Winfrey's endorsement, stating, "Getting the seal of approval from Oprah, and knowing that she read it and loved it, made it all OK. I mean, it’s Oprah!!"
As Knowles continues to share her story, she hopes to empower others to take charge of their health and seek the support they need. Her experience serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection and the power of family support during difficult times. "You can go through that and still be fly," she said, offering hope and inspiration to those facing similar challenges.
