Billy Joel Attempted Suicide Twice After Affair with Friend’s Wife

Billy Joel’s life story is often filled with music and unforgettable melodies, but like many artists, his journey includes darker chapters. Recently, Joel opened up about a particularly harrowing time in his life during the premiere of his new documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes. In this film, he candidly reveals the emotional turmoil he experienced after having an affair with his best friend’s wife, which ultimately led to two suicide attempts.

At 76, Joel reflects on this tumultuous period, discussing a void that consumed him following the affair. The affair was not just an act of infidelity; it was the catalyst for a series of events that turned his life upside down. He recounted how the affair with Elizabeth Weber—his former bandmate Jon Small’s wife—began gradually. Their bond deepened as he moved in with her and Small, believing it to be harmless at the time, but soon after, his feelings became undeniable.

As Joel shared, revealing his love to Small was painful. "I felt very, very guilty about it," he confessed. "They had a child. I felt like a homewrecker.” This guilt became overwhelming, leading him down a path of destruction. Once their friendship shattered, Joel found himself lost. He struggled to cope with the emotional pain and spiraled into depression, which drove him to contemplate ending his life.

The first suicide attempt involved Joel taking sleeping pills given to him by his sister. This decision led him to a coma for several days, a moment that left his family fearing the worst. Joel’s sister, Judy, recalled the fear and guilt she felt, believing she had contributed to his state. Joel himself acknowledged a selfishness during this period, stating that waking up in the hospital only intensified his despair.

It was during this critical time in Joel’s life that his future friend saved him. Jon Small, even amid their damaged friendship, rushed Joel to the hospital after his second attempt, which involved drinking a toxic substance. Small described how the intense emotions surrounding their friendship contributed to Joel’s struggles. Despite the years that followed, he eventually forgave Joel, seeing his deep remorse and the pain caused by their entangled lives.

The fallout from the affair led Joel to check himself into an observation ward, a point he described as essential for his recovery. Within a couple of weeks, he found a cathartic way to deal with his pain—through music. This period of introspection became a turning point; he mentioned how using his experiences enabled him to create meaningful songs that resonated with many.

After grappling with personal demons, Joel and Elizabeth eventually reconnected and married, but their union also faced challenges. They were married from 1973 to 1982, a significant chapter reflective of both their struggles and shared love story.

As Joel reflects, he acknowledges that life has a way of shaping personal narratives, particularly in the realm of creativity. While his story features darker elements, it’s ultimately one of resilience, love, and the power of music as a healing tool. The revelation of his past struggles allows fans to see another side of the artist, demonstrating the importance of addressing mental health issues openly.

With the documentary set to debut on HBO in July, audiences will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Billy Joel’s life—beyond the iconic songs. As he continues to channel his past into creative expression, he highlights the significance of seeking help, particularly for mental health struggles.

If you or someone you know is experiencing similar challenges, it’s vital to reach out. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides support for individuals dealing with emotional distress, offering a listening ear 24/7.

Ultimately, Billy Joel’s candid revelations serve as a reminder of the power of vulnerability and the importance of addressing mental health. His journey is not just a personal tale but a universal one, illustrating that behind the music lies a depth of experience that many can relate to. Through honesty and creativity, Joel exemplifies how one can navigate the complexities of life, inviting others to find solace and connection through shared humanity.

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