Billy Joel Reveals He Attempted Suicide Twice After Having an Affair with His Best Friend’s Wife
In an emotional revelation featured in his forthcoming documentary, “Billy Joel: And So It Goes,” the legendary musician shares a deeply personal chapter from his past. The documentary provides a revealing glimpse into Billy Joel’s early twenties when he found himself entangled in a tumultuous affair with Elizabeth Weber, the wife of his close friend, Jon Small. This affair led to significant mental turmoil for Joel, culminating in two desperate suicide attempts as he grappled with the consequences of his actions.
The Affair that Shattered Relationships
The affair between Billy Joel and Elizabeth Weber was not merely a fleeting romance; it marked a turning point in his life. At the time, Joel was part of the band Attila and was navigating a world filled with hopes and dreams. However, falling in love with the spouse of his best friend created a conflict that spiraled out of control. “I was just in a lot of pain,” Joel recalls in the documentary. The intense emotional struggle led to feelings of despair, and in his darkest moments, he contemplated ending his life.
The Consequences of Despair
After the affair was unveiled, the fallout was severe, resulting not only in the breakdown of his friendship with Small but also the disbanding of Attila. Joel’s life descended into chaos, as he faced homelessness and a grave mental health crisis. The sense of hopelessness was overwhelming, leaving him adrift in a world that felt devoid of purpose. In a moment of desperation, he attempted to take his life by overdosing on sleeping pills prescribed by his sister. This attempt resulted in a coma that lasted several days, leaving his loved ones in fear of losing him forever.
Reconciliation and Recovery
The heartbreak of that devastating period led to a pivotal reconciliation between Joel and Small. Over time, they found a way to mend their fractured friendship, allowing Joel to start piecing his life back together. Following the affair, Joel married Elizabeth Weber, who subsequently became his manager. Their relationship lasted until their divorce in 1982, but it was one rooted in a complicated history filled with emotional challenges.
The documentary features additional interviews with both Weber and Small, providing insights into the complex emotions that surrounded these events. As it lightens the burden of shame that Joel carried, the film not only chronicles his musical journey but also emphasizes the profound struggles with mental health that so many face. “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” is set to premiere on HBO and HBO Max, chronicling both triumph and turmoil.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or mental health issues, it is crucial to seek help. In New York City, immediate support is available at 1-888-NYC-WELL, or you can reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 988. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for recovery.
