Billy Joel Attempted Suicide Twice and Fell into a Coma After Affair with Friend’s Wife. Why He Wanted to ‘End It All’

Billy Joel’s Struggles Revealed: A Story of Love, Friendship, and Desperation

In a recent documentary, iconic singer Billy Joel opened up about a dark chapter in his life that involved attempted suicide and a tumultuous affair with his best friend’s wife. The premiere of the documentary, titled “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” took place at the Tribeca Festival in New York City, shedding light on the singer’s struggles in his early 20s.

During this period, Joel was part of a band called Attila with his best friend Jon Small, whose wife, Elizabeth Weber, Joel eventually fell in love with. The affair led to immense guilt and turmoil for Joel, as he grappled with the consequences of his actions. His confession to Small about his feelings for Elizabeth ultimately resulted in a physical altercation, leading to the dissolution of their friendship and the end of the band.

The aftermath of the affair took a toll on Joel, who found himself spiraling into depression and homelessness. Without a place to live and consumed by feelings of guilt and despair, he made the devastating decision to attempt suicide not once, but twice. The first attempt left him in a coma for several days, causing anguish for his family and loved ones.

Reflecting on this dark period in his life, Joel acknowledged the selfishness of his actions and the impact they had on those around him. With the support of his sister and former friend Small, he was able to survive the second suicide attempt, which involved ingesting a harmful substance. Small’s intervention in taking Joel to the hospital proved to be a turning point in Joel’s journey towards recovery.

Following the suicide attempts, Joel sought help and checked himself into an “observation ward,” where he underwent a transformative experience. Grappling with feelings of being a “lost soul,” Joel found solace and healing through his music, using his emotional turmoil as inspiration for his art. The experience in the observation ward marked a pivotal moment in Joel’s life, allowing him to reevaluate his priorities and find a renewed sense of purpose.

Despite the challenges and hardships he faced, Joel emerged from this dark period with a newfound appreciation for life and a deeper understanding of his own struggles. His resilience and ability to confront his demons head-on serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seeking help in times of crisis.

The documentary, “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” provides an intimate look into the singer’s journey through adversity and self-discovery, offering insight into the complexities of fame, friendship, and mental health. Scheduled to air on HBO in July, the documentary promises to shed further light on Joel’s remarkable resilience and his enduring legacy as a music icon.

In a world where mental health challenges continue to be stigmatized, Billy Joel’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking help and finding hope in the midst of despair. His willingness to share his struggles openly and honestly demonstrates the transformative power of vulnerability and the healing that can come from confronting one’s innermost demons.

As fans await the release of “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” they are invited to reflect on the singer’s journey and draw inspiration from his resilience in the face of adversity. Joel’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a reminder that, even in our darkest moments, there is always a glimmer of hope shining through.