In a candid and emotional discussion, Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley have openly reflected on the challenges that led to the end of their nine-year marriage, which concluded in divorce in 1994. Joel, who is known for his iconic music, expressed feelings of devastation, acknowledging the difficulties faced as their relationship evolved over time. He explained that while he and Brinkley initially wanted their marriage to work, personal and professional demands eventually played a role in its deterioration.
Brinkley described the emotional toll of their relationship, highlighting her own feelings of loneliness and the difficulty of maintaining a connection as her husband’s work consumed his time. She acknowledged the impact on their daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, saying that the family’s home, once filled with life and laughter, felt increasingly empty. Joel, in turn, admitted that his drinking had taken a toll on their relationship and even affected his ability to be present for his family. He described the separation as a deeply sad time, especially given the young age of their daughter at the time.
The couple’s experiences have been explored in the documentary series ‘Bill Joel: And So It Goes’, which features Joel’s reflections on his past relationships and personal struggles. Brinkley’s account of their divorce, including the emotional moments that led to their separation, is a central part of the series. Joel’s own history with his parents’ divorce, which occurred around the same age as his marriage to Brinkley, has also been mentioned as a factor in his understanding of family dynamics and the complexities of love and commitment.
Since their divorce, Joel has been married to several other women, including celebrity chef Katie Lee and his current spouse, Alexis Roderick. Brinkley, who has experienced multiple marriages, has reflected on her own emotional journey, even acknowledging the pain of being in love despite the setbacks. Their candid conversation in the documentary offers a rare glimpse into the personal lives of a music icon and a former model, shedding light on the often-unseen challenges of long-term relationships and the emotional impact of separation.