How Rita Wilson’s Relationship with Her Body Changed After Breast Cancer, Undergoing Double Mastectomy (Exclusive)

**Rita Wilson Celebrates a Decade of Being Cancer-Free and Reflects on Body Image Transformation**

Actress and singer Rita Wilson has opened up about her complex relationship with her body since being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. Recently featured on the cover of PEOPLE magazine, she candidly discussed the challenges she faced following her diagnosis and the subsequent double mastectomy that reshaped her perception of herself.

In her new album, *Sound of a Woman*, Wilson explores themes of transformation that resonate deeply with her personal experiences, including motherhood, loss, and the journey to healing. Notably, the track “Whose Body Is This?” articulates the struggle many women face in recognising their bodies after significant life events, such as childbirth.

Reflecting on her experiences of motherhood, the 69-year-old actress expressed a profound awe for what her body is capable of. “When you give birth and nurture a life, you develop a deep appreciation for your body,” she remarked. Wilson, who is the mother of actors Chet Hanks and Truman Hanks, treasured the incredible experience of pregnancy and breastfeeding. “Even though your body changes and looks different, that wonder remains,” she added.

However, everything changed when she received her cancer diagnosis. The normality of her life took a sharp turn following her surgery to remove both breasts. “Those parts of your body that had served you beautifully were gone,” she recalled. The actress highlighted the progress in modern medical interventions, noting the options available today, such as reconstruction and implants. She contrasted this with her mother’s generation, when a breast cancer diagnosis often left women feeling like they were shadows of their former selves.

In contemplating the duality of her experience, Wilson spent considerable time reflecting on her body during her cancer journey. “It was interesting to look at my body in that way and see it not just as what was missing, but to appreciate what it could still do to keep me healthy and healing,” she explained.

Following her double mastectomy, Wilson has embraced her journey, humorously stating, “I like to say that I’ve finally gone Hollywood now and I have some in place,” referring to her reconstructed breasts.

On March 31, 2025, Rita Wilson marked a significant milestone, celebrating ten years of being cancer-free. In an emotional video shared on Instagram, she expressed her gratitude, stating, “It’s a celebration for me. Ten years of being cancer-free. I am so deeply grateful.” Wilson emphasised the importance of her healthcare team, friends, and family during her recovery, acknowledging the emotional rollercoaster that is often part of cancer survivorship.

Wilson released her sixth studio album, *Sound of a Woman*, on May 1, which reflects her growth and evolution through various transformative phases of a woman’s life. The singer noted that music often allows for the expression of feelings that may be difficult to articulate in conversation. “Sometimes in music, you can say things that would be harder to say if you were just trying to talk about them,” she said, highlighting the therapeutic power of songwriting.

Through her openness about her journey and her new music, Rita Wilson continues to inspire others facing similar challenges. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, the ability to adapt, and the importance of self-love, showing that one’s relationship with their body can evolve positively even in the face of adversity.

For an in-depth look at Rita Wilson’s life and experiences, be sure to check out the latest issue of PEOPLE, now available on newsstands.