Jeff Buckley’s Ex Reflects on the Final Days of the Rock Icon
Rebecca Moore, known for her past relationship with the late singer Jeff Buckley, has finally opened up about their time together and the struggles he faced before his tragic death in 1997. Moore, who remained close to Buckley until the end, revealed that the iconic musician was grappling with some form of mental health issues before his accidental drowning. In a recent exclusive interview, she shared her insights and memories of the enigmatic artist with PEOPLE.
The intimate details of Buckley’s life and his untimely passing at the age of 30 have been brought into the spotlight once again through Amy Berg’s documentary “It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley.” Moore’s decision to speak out was influenced by Berg’s reputation for handling sensitive subject matters with finesse. After years of keeping silent due to grief and public scrutiny, Moore felt compelled to share her side of the story.
Moore and Buckley’s paths first crossed in 1991 at a tribute concert honouring Buckley’s late father, folk singer Tim Buckley. Their whirlwind romance served as the inspiration behind some of the tracks on Buckley’s acclaimed debut album, “Grace,” released in 1994. The profound connection they shared transformed both their lives and brought a sense of magic and possibility into their world.
Despite the deep bond they shared, Moore and Buckley faced challenges as his career soared to new heights, leading to their eventual breakup. Moore expressed concerns about Buckley’s well-being after they parted ways, noting his open-hearted nature and the absence of strong boundaries. Their lasting friendship continued, with Moore recalling their final phone call days before Buckley’s tragic demise.
In their last conversation, Moore sensed a mix of hope and despair in Buckley’s words. He spoke of personal growth and a desire for self-care, revealing his struggles with mental health issues, including a possible bipolar disorder. Moore’s recollection of their poignant discussion underscores the complexity of Buckley’s emotional state in the days leading up to his passing.
As Buckley embarked on creating his second album in Memphis, his journey took a tragic turn when he drowned in the Mississippi River in May 1997. Despite initial reports of an accidental death, Moore believes there were underlying psychological distress signals that may have contributed to the fatal incident. She emphasised the importance of recognising and addressing mental health challenges, advocating for better support and understanding.
Reflecting on her relationship with Buckley and the events surrounding his death, Moore chooses to focus on the positive aspects of his legacy. She cherishes the memories of the compassionate and vivacious person Buckley was, emphasising the need for kindness and care towards one another. Through her heartfelt recollections, Moore honours Buckley’s spirit and the lasting impact he had both as an artist and as a human being.
The captivating narrative of Rebecca Moore’s reminiscences sheds light on a chapter of Jeff Buckley’s life that remains etched in the annals of music history. As fans and admirers continue to celebrate Buckley’s artistry, Moore’s personal account offers a poignant insight into the complexities of fame, love, and loss that defined their relationship.