Billy Idol, the celebrated punk-rock icon known for hits like "Rebel Yell" and "White Wedding," has recently opened up about a deeply personal and life-altering experience from his past. In his new documentary, titled Billy Idol Should Be Dead, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, the legendary artist reflects on a near-fatal heroin overdose he suffered in 1984. This candid revelation offers a glimpse into the chaotic lifestyle that accompanied his rise to fame and highlights the harsh realities of addiction.
At the age of 69, Idol recalls the harrowing night when he was "basically dying." As he climbed the charts and gained notoriety, he found himself caught in a dangerous web of substance abuse. During a trip to London with friends, the group indulged in what Idol describes as "some of the strongest heroin." While most of his friends succumbed to the drug, Idol and a companion continued to use until the situation spiraled out of control. "I was turning blue," he confessed in the documentary. The gravity of the situation became apparent when he was placed in an ice-cold bath in a desperate attempt to revive him.
This episode reflects a broader trend of drug use in the music industry during the 1980s, a time when heroin was often romanticized by various artists. Idol noted that many musicians, including the late Lou Reed, celebrated this lifestyle, leaving them oblivious to its life-threatening consequences. "You weren’t thinking how dangerous it was. In fact, you’re thinking quite the opposite," he said.
The narrative takes an even darker turn when Idol recounts another wild encounter during a trip to Bangkok, Thailand, in the late ’80s. He reminisced about inflicting $75,000 worth of damages to hotel property and a shocking incident where he collapsed in a hotel elevator. Mel Gibson, who happened to be in the area with his family at the time, discovered Idol in an unconscious state, a moment that served as a wake-up call for the rocker.
Despite the chaos, Idol vividly remembers how the horrifying experiences eventually prompted him to turn away from heroin. He admitted the detox process was excruciating, describing it as "one of the most awful experiences in the world." Idol acknowledged that quitting heroin is a long, painful journey with no quick fixes. "You’re just counting the days, the seconds, the hours," he explained, and even after months of sobriety, he still felt the lingering effects of addiction.
Idol’s candidness extends beyond his struggles with drugs. He also speaks of a sudden family revelation that shocked him—discovering that he had unknowingly fathered a son during his notorious "Rebel Yell" tour. The revelation unfolded when Brant, his son, took a 23andMe DNA test that led to a stunning discovery about his parentage. Idol, who has two other children—Willem and Bonnie—expressed joy at this newfound connection, reinforcing the idea that love and family bonds can prevail, even amidst a turbulent lifestyle.
Reflecting on his journey, Idol concludes that every dark moment served a purpose. He embraces a hopeful narrative that melds with his past struggles. "The silver lining was I did put heroin behind me. It was too horrible, the whole experience. It actually really put me off," he shared.
Today, Idol enjoys a life characterized by sobriety, creativity, and a deep commitment to his family. His revelations serve as a reminder that even the most polished surfaces can conceal immense pain and struggle. Idol’s story resonates with many, shedding light on the realities of addiction while offering hope for those facing similar challenges.
In an industry often overshadowed by the glitz and glamour of fame, Billy Idol’s experiences remind us of the importance of authenticity and resilience. As he continues to thrive as an artist and a father, his story stands as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for renewal and recovery. Idol’s transformational narrative encourages others to seek help, embrace their truth, and find solace in the love of family, showing us that it’s never too late for a second chance.
