Beyonce Knowles' parents to divorce

Dec 21, 2009, 10:17 GMT

Beyonce Knowles' parents are getting divorced.

Tina Knowles, 55 has called time on her 29-year union with the singer's manager Mathew and began legal proceedings in Houston, Texas, on November 11 after living "separate lives" for months.

A source said: "It's a rough time for the family, especially over the holidays. They will try to make it cordial.

"They put their kids first and will still be around each other."

Rumours have suggested that the split may be related to a paternity suit filed by Alexandra Wright in October which claimed Mathew was the father of her unborn child.

However, a statement from the couple insisted their split was amicable and they would remain closely connected.

It read: "If anyone is expecting an ugly, messy fight, they will be sadly disappointed.

"The decision to end our marriage is an amicable one. We remain friends, parents and business partners."

Mathew and Tina both played pivotal roles in the rise of Destiny's Child and 28-year-old Beyonce. Mathew managed the band, Tina designed the costumes and she now has her own line of clothes named the House of Dereon.

The couple are also parents to 25-year-old singer Solange Knowles.