In a touching display of enduring support, supermodel Christie Brinkley recently spoke out about her ex-husband Billy Joel’s diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder that has forced the legendary singer-songwriter to cancel all upcoming concert performances. The news, first reported by The New York Times on May 23, 2025, sent shockwaves through the music world, but Brinkley’s loving message, shared via Instagram and highlighted by USA TODAY in a post on May 25, 2025, has offered fans a glimpse into the personal side of this challenging moment.
A Diagnosis That Shook the Stage
Billy Joel, the “Piano Man” behind timeless hits like Uptown Girl and Just the Way You Are, was diagnosed with NPH, a condition characterized by a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the skull that presses on the brain, leading to symptoms such as impaired balance, vision issues, hearing difficulties, and cognitive challenges. According to the Cleveland Clinic, NPH primarily affects individuals over 65, with a prevalence of about 0.2% in those aged 70 to 80. While the disorder can mimic dementia, it is often treatable and, in some cases, reversible through interventions like surgery to implant a shunt to drain excess fluid or through physical therapy.
A statement on Joel’s social media, as reported by The New York Times, noted that his condition had been “exacerbated by recent concert performances.” Charles Matouk, a neurosurgeon at Yale University and director of the university’s Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus Program, explained that the physical and mental demands of performing could worsen NPH symptoms, making Joel’s decision to step back from the stage a necessary one. The singer, now 76, is reportedly undergoing physical therapy to manage his symptoms, with hopes of recovery.
Brinkley’s Loving Message
Christie Brinkley, who was married to Joel from 1985 to 1994, took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message of support for her former spouse. The couple, who share a daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, have maintained a friendly relationship despite their divorce, often speaking fondly of each other in public. In her post, Brinkley reflected on Joel’s unparalleled ability to connect with audiences through his music, writing, “Billy has always had a unique gift for touching people’s hearts with his songs, and I know that same spirit will carry him through this challenge. We’re all rooting for you.”
The message, which was covered in a USA TODAY X post on May 25, 2025, at 20:30 UTC, resonated deeply with fans, garnering thousands of likes and comments. Brinkley’s words highlighted the personal toll of Joel’s diagnosis while also showcasing the enduring bond between the two, even decades after their marriage ended. Her memoir, Uptown Girl, published earlier this month on May 7, 2025, delves into the complexities of their relationship, including the challenges they faced during their marriage, such as Joel’s struggles with addiction. Yet, her recent message underscores a relationship that has evolved into one of mutual respect and care.
A Shared History and a Supportive Family
Brinkley and Joel’s story began in the 1980s, a whirlwind romance that captivated the public. They married in 1985, and their daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, was born later that year on December 29. Now 39, Alexa is a singer-songwriter in her own right, having released her EP Sketches in 2006 and performed at high-profile events like New York Fashion Week. According to a Wikipedia entry updated on May 21, 2025, Alexa has navigated her own challenges, including a highly publicized incident in December 2009 involving a breakup and an overdose scare with the homeopathic remedy Traumeel, which she later described as a turning point in her career and personal life.
Despite their divorce in 1994, Brinkley and Joel have remained connected through their daughter and shared history. Brinkley’s memoir recounts the highs and lows of their marriage, including Joel’s grand gestures—like gifting her thousands of roses and a white horse for Christmas—and the darker moments, such as her struggle to support him through addiction while shielding their issues from the tabloids. “I was 100% dedicated to Billy, but I never told anyone about our issues, not even my friends,” she wrote, as noted in a Los Angeles Times article on May 7, 2025.
Fans and Friends Rally Around Joel
The USA TODAY post about Brinkley’s message sparked a flurry of responses on X, reflecting the widespread concern and support for Joel. While some replies veered off-topic—such as users offering financial giveaways or promoting unrelated accounts like
@carol_alts for trading advice—the sentiment was overwhelmingly positive. One user,
@SethHenrySeth, simply wrote, “All the best for you, brother,” capturing the collective hope for Joel’s recovery.
Joel’s diagnosis comes at a time when he has been relatively active, with recent performances pushing his physical limits. NPH, though treatable, requires careful management, and the road ahead may involve more than just physical therapy. For now, Joel’s fans, family, and friends—like Brinkley—are standing by him, hopeful that the man who has brought so much joy through his music will find his way back to the stage.
Looking Forward
As Billy Joel embarks on his journey with NPH, the outpouring of support from Christie Brinkley and countless fans serves as a reminder of the deep connections he has forged over his decades-long career. While the future of his performances remains uncertain, Brinkley’s message encapsulates the optimism surrounding his recovery: a belief in the same resilience and spirit that has defined Joel’s life and music. For now, the world waits, hoping to see the “Piano Man” return to the keys, stronger than ever.
