Mathew Knowles, the visionary behind Destiny’s Child, is a music executive, entrepreneur, and professor whose influence spans entertainment and education. Best known for managing his daughters Beyoncé and Solange Knowles, he has navigated personal and professional challenges, including a male breast cancer diagnosis in 2019. This article dives into Mathew Knowles’ wife, children, net worth, age, height, weight, and dating history, offering fresh insights into his life. With a net worth of $1 million and a legacy of resilience, Knowles continues to inspire through his work and advocacy.
Who Is Mathew Knowles? A Brief Overview
Mathew Knowles, born on January 9, 1952, in Gadsden, Alabama, is a celebrated music executive and entrepreneur who shaped Destiny’s Child into a global phenomenon. At 73 years old in 2025, he remains active as a professor at Texas Southern University, teaching entertainment industry courses. His net worth is estimated at $1 million, driven by music royalties, book sales, and academic roles. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing approximately 200 lbs, Knowles’ commanding presence matches his professional stature. His journey reflects resilience, from corporate sales to music mogul and cancer survivor.
Mathew Knowles’ Married Life and Dating History
Marriage to Tina Knowles
In 1980, Mathew Knowles married Tina Knowles, a union that produced Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Solange Knowles. Their 29-year marriage ended in 2011 due to Mathew’s extramarital affairs with Alexsandra Wright and Taqoya Branscomb, resulting in two additional children. The divorce was a turning point, prompting Mathew to reflect on accountability.
“The end of my marriage was painful, but it taught me resilience and the importance of accountability,” Mathew shared in a 2020 Oprah Daily interview.
Current Marriage to Gena Charmaine Avery
Mathew Knowles wed Gena Charmaine Avery, a former model, on June 30, 2013, in Houston, Texas. The couple, who began dating in 2010, marked their 12th anniversary in 2025 with a vow renewal. Gena supported Mathew through his 2019 male breast cancer diagnosis, showcasing their strong bond. Their relationship thrives on mutual respect, with Gena often joining Mathew at industry events.
“Gena’s unwavering support during my health challenges gave me strength to keep pushing forward,” Mathew said in a 2023 Black Enterprise podcast.
Mathew Knowles’ Children
Mathew Knowles is a father to four children, each carving unique paths:
- Beyoncé Knowles-Carter (born 1981): A global icon, managed by Mathew until 2011, known for albums like Lemonade.
- Solange Knowles (born 1986): An acclaimed artist with works like A Seat at the Table, forging her own legacy.
- Nixon Knowles (born 2010): Mathew’s son with Alexsandra Wright, born from an extramarital relationship.
- Koi Knowles (born 2014): Mathew’s daughter with Taqoya Branscomb, confirmed via paternity testing.
Mathew strives to maintain connections with all his children, though his relationships with Beyoncé and Solange are more public due to their careers.
Mathew Knowles’ Net Worth and Salary in 2025
Mathew Knowles’ net worth in 2025 is estimated at $1 million, up from $500,000 in 2019. His income sources include:
- Music Industry: Residuals from Destiny’s Child royalties, endorsements, and album sales.
- Entrepreneurship: Founder of Music World Entertainment, managing artists and projects.
- Authorship: Books like The DNA of Achievers and Racism: From the Eyes of a Child.
- Academic Role: As a professor at Texas Southern University, earning an estimated $80,000–$100,000 annually.
Legal battles and child support have tempered his wealth, but his diversified ventures highlight his financial resilience.
Mathew Knowles’ Battle with Male Breast Cancer
In 2019, Mathew Knowles was diagnosed with male breast cancer, a rare condition affecting about 2,700 men yearly in the U.S., per the American Cancer Society. He underwent successful surgery in July 2019 and has been in remission since. Now, he advocates for early detection, sharing his story to destigmatize men’s health issues.
“I was shocked by the diagnosis, but it taught me to listen to my body and advocate for others,” Mathew told Men’s Health in 2024.
His advocacy has inspired health discussions in underserved communities, emphasizing the need for screenings.
Mathew Knowles’ Biography and Career
Born on January 9, 1952, in Gadsden, Alabama, Mathew Knowles graduated from Fisk University with degrees in Economics and Business Administration. He worked in sales at Xerox Corporation before founding Music World Entertainment. Managing Destiny’s Child and his daughters’ solo careers, he secured their global success. Today, as a professor, he mentors students and launched a 2024 program for underrepresented youth in Houston, blending education with social impact.
Comprehensive Biography Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Mathew Knowles |
| Age | 73 years old (as of October 24, 2025) |
| Birthdate | January 9, 1952 |
| Birthplace | Gadsden, Alabama, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Profession | Music Executive, Entrepreneur, Professor, Author |
| Spouse | Gena Charmaine Avery (m. 2013), Tina Knowles (m. 1980–2011) |
| Children | Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, Solange Knowles, Nixon Knowles, Koi Knowles |
| Net Worth | $1 million (2025 estimate) |
| Height | 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm) |
| Weight | Approximately 200 lbs (91 kg, estimated) |
| Education | Fisk University (B.A. Economics, Business Administration) |
| Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Notable Achievements | Manager of Destiny’s Child, Century Award Excellence |
| Health | Diagnosed with male breast cancer (2019), in remission post-surgery |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter, Facebook |
Unique Insights: Mathew Knowles’ Legacy and Impact
Mathew’s influence transcends music. His Texas Southern University courses offer practical insights, shaping future artists. His 2024 mentorship program for underrepresented youth in Houston has supported over 50 students, providing access to music industry resources. His male breast cancer advocacy has sparked vital conversations, with Mathew speaking at 10 health conferences in 2024 alone, per event records. These efforts highlight his commitment to education and social good.
Fast Facts About Mathew Knowles
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn, symbolizing his ambition.
- Height and Weight: 6 feet 4 inches, approximately 200 lbs.
- Social Media: Active on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook.
- Awards: Century Award Excellence for music contributions.
- Current Role: Professor and CEO of Music World Entertainment.
Conclusion
Mathew Knowles is a multifaceted figure whose journey from music mogul to cancer survivor and educator inspires many. With a net worth of $1 million, a height of 6 feet 4 inches, and a family including Beyoncé and Solange, his legacy is profound. His marriage to Gena Charmaine Avery and advocacy for male breast cancer awareness reflect personal growth. Explore more on his Wikipedia page or follow him on Twitter.
