Angelina Jolie shows mastectomy scars in new interview

Angelina Jolie reveals her mastectomy scars and advocates for breast health and accessible genetic testing

Angelina Jolie has opened up about her decision to publicly show her mastectomy scars for the first time, more than a decade after undergoing a preventive double mastectomy. The Oscar-winning actress, 50, spoke to TIME France about why she felt it was important to share her experience and advocate for women’s health.

“I share these scars with many women I love,” Jolie said. “And I'm always moved when I see other women share theirs.” She explained that the interview coincides with TIME France’s focus on breast health, prevention, and awareness about cancer.

Jolie’s mother, actress Marcheline Bertrand, passed away from cancer in 2007 at the age of 56. In 2013, Jolie revealed in a New York Times op-ed that she carried the BRCA1 gene, which significantly increased her risk of breast cancer. She described her decision to have a mastectomy as difficult but ultimately life-saving, reducing her risk from 87 percent to under 5 percent.

In addition to her breast surgery, Jolie also had her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed in 2015 to prevent ovarian cancer. She has since encouraged broader access to BRCA screenings, stating that every woman should have the tools and knowledge to make informed healthcare decisions. “Healthcare decisions must be personal, and women must have the information and support they need,” Jolie said. “Access to screening and care should not depend on financial resources or location.”

Jolie is also starring in the upcoming film Couture, directed by Alice Winocour, where she plays Maxine Walker, an American filmmaker diagnosed with breast cancer. She praised Winocour for handling the sensitive subject with care and said the story focuses on life rather than just illness. “Hardships, illnesses, and pain are part of our existence, but what matters is how we face them,” Jolie said, reflecting on her mother’s long battle with cancer.

The full interview, including photos of Jolie’s mastectomy scars, will appear in the first issue of TIME France, available on December 18. Through sharing her journey, Jolie continues to spotlight the importance of prevention, awareness, and empowering women to take control of their health.