Billy Joel Suicide Attempts: New Documentary Details
- Billy Joel, the acclaimed "Piano Man" singer, has recently shared details about his struggles with mental health and a newly diagnosed brain disorder.
- The suicide attempts occurred after Joel had an affair with Elizabeth Weber, the wife of his bandmate Jon Small.
- I felt like a homewrecker,” Joel said in the documentary "Billy Joel: And So It Goes." He added, "I was just in love with a woman and I...
Billy Joel, the legendary “Piano Man,” bravely unveils his battles with mental health and a recent brain disorder diagnosis in a new documentary. The singer disclosed he attempted suicide twice in his 20s following an affair, a revelation that sheds light on a previously hidden chapter of his life. These devastating events, fueled by guilt and depression, forced the breakup of his band, Attila. Joel’s story, though, is one of resilience; he found solace in his music, transforming pain into iconic hits. The documentary, “Billy Joel: And So It goes,” delves into these traumatic experiences. News Directory 3 offers insight into the profound journey of this music icon. Discover what’s next for the second part of this revealing documentary.
Billy joel Reveals Past Suicide Attempts and Brain Disorder Diagnosis
Updated June 11, 2025
Billy Joel, the acclaimed “Piano Man” singer, has recently shared details about his struggles with mental health and a newly diagnosed brain disorder. Last month, Joel canceled upcoming concerts, citing a brain disorder that can cause dementia. In a recent documentary, he also revealed he attempted suicide twice in his 20s.
The suicide attempts occurred after Joel had an affair with Elizabeth Weber, the wife of his bandmate Jon Small. Joel said he felt immense guilt over the situation, which led to the breakup of his band, Attila. Overwhelmed, Joel turned to alcohol and experienced severe depression.
“I felt very, very guilty about it. They had a child. I felt like a homewrecker,” Joel said in the documentary “Billy Joel: And So It Goes.” He added, “I was just in love with a woman and I got punched in the nose, which I deserved.”
Following his first suicide attempt with sleeping pills, Joel woke up in the hospital still feeling suicidal. His sister recounted the harrowing experience, saying Joel then drank furniture polish in a second attempt. Ironically, it was Small, his estranged friend, who took him to the hospital that time.
Small said he eventually forgave Joel. After a stay in an observation ward, Joel found a way to channel his emotions into his music. He reconnected with Weber, wrote about her in his hit song “Piano Man,” and they married in 1973.
What’s next
the documentary, “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” explores Joel’s early life and career, including his motorcycle accident in 1982. The second part of the documentary will cover later periods of his life.