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Billy Joel Opens Up About Rehab and Divorce
Billy Joel reflects on his struggles with addiction in a new documentary.

Billy Joel discusses his past struggles with alcoholism and the impact on his relationships.
Billy Joel Reflects on Rehab and Marriage Struggles
In his new documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes, the singer recalls his journey through alcohol rehabilitation at the Betty Ford Center in 2005. This came after his then-wife, Katie Lee, issued an ultimatum regarding his drinking. Joel described his struggles as he reflected on their marriage, which he said had become fragile after his return from rehab. He shared that Lee's growing ambitions and their age difference contributed to their separation in 2009. Additionally, Joel revealed that Elton John's comments about his drinking added strain to their friendship, highlighting the personal challenges he faced during this period.
Key Takeaways
"Either you do something about your drinking or this isn't gonna work out."
Katie Lee's ultimatum to Joel illustrates the pressure of addiction in relationships.
"There was bad blood for a little while."
Joel reflects on the strain in his friendship with Elton John due to harsh comments.
"I wanted to be doing all of the things together, but I think that's where our age came into play."
Katie Lee discusses the impact of their age difference on their marriage.
"Elton had made a comment that he thought I needed real rehab."
Joel describes how John's observations affected his self-image.
Billy Joel's candid revelations shed light on the difficult balance between fame, personal struggles, and relationships. His experiences serve as a reminder of how addiction can strain even the strongest connections. With age differences and career ambitions affecting his marriage to Katie Lee, Joel highlights the complexities of modern relationships, especially in the spotlight. Furthermore, the dynamics of friendships can also be affected by personal challenges, as seen in his fallout with Elton John. Such insights allow fans to glimpse the human side of celebrities who often seem untouchable, adding layers to their public personas.
Highlights
- Life in the spotlight comes with hidden struggles.
- Addiction challenges even the strongest relationships.
- Facing personal demons is a shared human experience.
- The past shapes our present, for better or worse.
Potential Sensitivity Around Addiction and Relationships
The discussion touches on personal addiction, divorce, and public critique from peers, which could evoke backlash from fans and the public.
Joel's journey illustrates the ongoing struggle many face with addiction and its effects on personal lives.
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