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Legendary musician Billy Joel was noticeably absent from the star-studded premiere of his brand-new documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes, after revealing a recent diagnosis of a brain condition that has forced him to cancel all upcoming tour dates.
The highly anticipated two-part documentary, directed by Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin, debuted on the opening night of the Tribeca Film Festival at the iconic Beacon Theatre in New York City. The film charts Joel’s incredible rise from Long Island piano man to global music icon, but the man himself was sadly missing from the celebration.
At the end of May, Joel was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a rare brain disorder that affects walking, memory, and bladder control. The condition, which can mimic symptoms of dementia, is caused by a build-up of spinal fluid in the brain and is typically treated through surgery and ongoing therapy.
While fans were disappointed by his absence, Joel’s loved ones and collaborators have made it clear that this is not the end of the road for the 75-year-old superstar. His daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, has shared that her father is “entirely committed to making a full recovery,” adding that he is undergoing intensive physical therapy and steadily regaining his strength.
During the premiere, director Susan Lacy addressed the audience to explain Joel’s absence, but offered reassurance with a dose of the singer’s trademark humour.
Credit: Art Maillett/Sony Music Archives/Courtesy HBO
“Billy wishes he were here tonight, and he asked us to convey his greetings to you all,” Lacy said.
“He said, ‘Getting old sucks, but it’s still preferable to getting cremated.’”
She closed by affirming:
“He will be back.”
The premiere drew a warm reception from the crowd, many of whom have followed Joel’s career for decades and were visibly moved by the intimate look into his life and legacy.
Billy Joel: And So It Goes promises to be a definitive look at one of America’s greatest songwriters, and though Joel’s health has put him on pause for now, fans can take comfort in knowing the Piano Man isn’t playing his final note just yet.
With millions sending love and support, Billy Joel’s message is clear: the show’s not over, it’s just taking an intermission.
