Billy Joel Recalls ‘Devastating’ Fallout After He Was Betrayed by Former Manager, Leading to $90M Fraud Lawsuit

Renowned singer-songwriter Billy Joel has spoken out about a harrowing experience of betrayal at the hands of his former manager, Frank Weber, which led to a $90 million fraud lawsuit. In a candid two-part HBO documentary titled “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” the five-time Grammy award winner revealed the shocking details of how he discovered that his finances had been allegedly mishandled by Weber.

The documentary, released recently, sheds light on a pivotal moment in Joel’s life when he realised that something was amiss with his financial affairs. Driving along the coastline with his then-wife Christie Brinkley, Joel started to notice discrepancies in the lavish lifestyle his manager was leading. From private jets to racehorses, it became apparent that money was being spent without Joel’s consent or knowledge.

Upon further investigation into his financial situation, Joel was stunned to discover that he did not possess the funds he believed he had earned from his successful music career. This abrupt realisation left him feeling devastated and betrayed as he grappled with the implications of Weber’s alleged actions.

Despite warnings from those within the music industry about the discrepancies in his financial status, Joel initially struggled to come to terms with the fact that someone he trusted implicitly could have deceived him. Brinkley, who voiced her concerns to Joel about Weber’s misconduct, found herself in a difficult position as she tried to protect her husband from further harm.

Following a series of difficult conversations and deliberations, Joel made the tough decision to file a $90 million lawsuit against Weber for fraud and breach of contract. The legal battle that ensued had profound implications for Joel, both personally and professionally, as he navigated the aftermath of the betrayal.

The impact of the betrayal was far-reaching, not only affecting Joel’s financial stability but also straining his relationships with loved ones, including his daughter Alexa Ray Joel. The burden of rebuilding his career and finances fell heavily on Joel’s shoulders as he grappled with the fallout from Weber’s actions.

Despite the challenges he faced, Joel remained resolute in his determination to regain control of his career and financial well-being. The experience with Weber served as a catalyst for Joel to take charge of his own management and ensure that such a betrayal would never happen again.

Through the documentary, Joel candidly reflects on the emotional toll of the betrayal and the subsequent legal battle, offering a glimpse into the inner turmoil he endured during that tumultuous period of his life. His resilience and determination to overcome this crisis serve as a testament to his enduring spirit and unwavering commitment to his craft.

As Joel continues to reflect on this chapter of his life, the documentary serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and obstacles that artists in the music industry may face behind the scenes. Despite the turmoil and setbacks, Joel’s story is one of perseverance, resilience, and ultimately triumph in the face of adversity.