Unveiling a Personal Journey Through Film
Christie Brinkley, the iconic supermodel, has played a pivotal role in the creation of HBO's new documentary 'Billy Joel: And So It Goes,' which explores the life and career of her ex-husband, Billy Joel. While Brinkley did not direct the two-part film, her extensive personal footage from their marriage between 1985 and 1994 has provided an intimate glimpse into their shared history. Alexa Ray Joel, their daughter, shared with Page Six that her mother's dedication to documenting family life resulted in 'magical moments' captured on film, enriching the documentary with authentic, heartfelt content.
This archival material offers viewers a unique perspective on the couple's relationship, from their meeting in 1983 to their eventual divorce in 1994. The footage not only highlights personal milestones but also complements the documentary's narrative of Joel's creative process and public life, making it a deeply personal contribution to the project.
Emotional Reflections on a Past Love
In the documentary, Billy Joel opens up about the emotional toll of their separation, admitting he was 'devastated' by the end of their marriage. Despite the pain, Joel emphasized that he 'never blamed' Brinkley for the split, showcasing a level of mutual respect that persists to this day. Brinkley herself has reflected on their bond, calling Joel a 'soulmate' and even naming her memoir after his hit song 'Uptown Girl,' a testament to the lasting impact of their relationship.
The documentary also delves into challenges that strained their marriage, including a significant $90 million fraud lawsuit Joel filed against his former manager in 1989. This legal battle necessitated extensive touring, pulling Joel away from his family and adding pressure to their relationship. Additionally, Brinkley pointed to Joel's internal struggles as a 'tortured artist,' particularly evident in his 1989 single 'I Go to Extremes,' which she saw as reflective of conflicts between his family life and artistic persona.
A Lasting Connection Beyond Divorce
Despite their parting ways over three decades ago, Brinkley and Joel maintain a close relationship, as highlighted in the HBO film. Joel described Brinkley as a 'muse' who inspired many of his songs, making him feel like a teenager experiencing romance anew. This enduring connection is evident in how both have spoken fondly of each other in interviews featured in the documentary, underscoring a bond that transcends their past marital challenges.
The inclusion of Brinkley's footage not only adds depth to the storytelling but also serves as a bridge connecting past memories with present reflections. For fans of Joel's music and Brinkley's iconic career, 'Billy Joel: And So It Goes' offers a rare look into the personal lives behind the public personas, made possible through Brinkley's lens of captured moments.