Billy Joel Says Falling for Ex-Wife Christie Brinkley Was ‘Like Being a Teenager All Over Again.’ Their Divorce Left Him ‘Devastated’

Billy Joel Shares Heartbreak Over Christie Brinkley Divorce

Renowned singer-songwriter Billy Joel recently opened up about the emotional turmoil he faced following his divorce from ex-wife Christie Brinkley, expressing that the split left him feeling ‘devastated’. The iconic musician, now happily married to wife Alexis, reflected on his past relationship with Brinkley in the second part of his HBO Max documentary, ‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes’.

In the documentary, Joel reminisces about the early days of his romance with Brinkley, likening it to a teenage experience of discovering romance and love for the first time. The couple, who met in 1983 while holidaying in St. Barts, eventually tied the knot and spent 11 years together. Joel, aged 76, fondly recalled the time as creatively fruitful, citing Brinkley as his muse for many songs he wrote during their relationship.

Brinkley, now 71, and Joel welcomed their daughter, Alexa, in 1985. However, cracks began to surface in their marriage by 1989, as depicted in Joel’s song ‘I Go to Extremes’, which delves into his struggles to balance family life with his career as a musician. Issues with his manager at the time further compounded Joel’s challenges, leading to financial turmoil and prolonged periods on the road, away from his loved ones.

Speaking candidly about the difficult period, Joel confessed, “I was in a relationship with someone who I cared deeply about. But I was not able to be at home. I was not able to be with my family. It was a very sad time for me.” The ‘Piano Man’ singer expressed his devastation at realising the fragility of love and the consequences of neglecting a relationship, ultimately leading to their divorce in 1994.

Despite the end of their marriage, Joel and Brinkley have maintained a strong friendship and co-parenting relationship over the years. In a heartwarming gesture, Joel serenaded Brinkley with ‘Uptown Girl’ during a concert in New York City’s Madison Square Garden in August 2024, showcasing their enduring bond beyond romantic entanglements.

Currently, Joel finds solace and joy in his present family life with wife Alexis, whom he married in 2015. The couple shares two daughters, Della and Remy, and Joel expressed his contentment with the current phase of his life. Supported by his wife through health challenges, including a recent diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, Joel remains positive and grateful for her unwavering presence by his side.

‘Billy Joel: And So It Goes’ offers fans an intimate glimpse into the legendary musician’s life, career, and personal struggles, now available for streaming on HBO Max. As Joel navigates the highs and lows of his journey, his resilience and ability to find happiness amidst adversity serve as an inspiration to many.

In the midst of personal revelations and reflections, Joel’s story underscores the complexities of relationships, the impact of fame on personal life, and the enduring power of music to express deep emotions. Through it all, Billy Joel’s unwavering passion for music and his ability to connect with audiences on a profound level continue to define his remarkable legacy in the music industry.