Billy Joel expressed his devastation when his second wife, Christie Brinkley, left him after their nine-year marriage ended in divorce in 1994. In the second part of his documentary “Bill Joel: And So it Goes,” the “Uptown Girl” singer reflected on the ephemeral nature of love, stating that it may seem solid but underlying issues can erode it over time, leading to a heartbreaking conclusion.
Brinkley, visibly emotional, mentioned that she had made an effort to salvage the relationship, stating, “I wanted it to work. I knew how lucky I was, having music and all that, but it just didn’t work.”
The former couple first met in 1983 in St. Barts, married in 1985, and welcomed their daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, shortly thereafter. However, their once joyful relationship deteriorated as Joel’s career consumed most of his time, leaving Brinkley feeling isolated and disconnected.
Reflecting on this challenging period, Joel acknowledged the strain caused by his constant traveling and absence from home. He admitted that it was a sorrowful time for him, unable to balance his personal and professional life effectively.
As the daughter of divorced parents herself, Brinkley acknowledged the impact of their split on their daughter, Alexa. Joel emphasized the importance of being a constant presence in his daughter’s life, ensuring her stability amid the family’s upheaval.
Both Joel and Brinkley faced personal struggles during their marriage, with Joel battling alcoholism, leading to strained moments in their relationship. Brinkley recalled instances where she had to shield herself from Joel’s intoxicated state, highlighting the challenges they faced.
Despite the pain and hardships, Joel and Brinkley eventually went their separate ways. Joel later remarried twice, while Brinkley walked down the aisle four more times. The complexities of love and relationships were laid bare in their emotional journey, as depicted in Joel’s documentary.
The poignant narrative of their failed marriage serves as a reminder that true love is not always a fairy tale but can involve pain and challenges. The couple’s story, filled with highs and lows, resonates with many who have experienced the complexities of relationships.
The documentary “Billy Joe: And So it Goes” offers a glimpse into the personal struggles and triumphs of the legendary singer-songwriter, showcasing the raw emotions and vulnerability behind the music.
