Billy Joel has made a startling and deeply personal revelation, disclosing that he attempted suicide twice and spent time in a coma following an affair with his best friend’s wife.

The singer, renowned for his iconic songwriting and enduring musical legacy, shared these harrowing details in a candid interview, offering a glimpse into a period of profound personal turmoil that shaped his life and artistry.

The disclosure, made during a recent conversation with a prominent journalist, has sent shockwaves through the music world and sparked widespread discussion about mental health, infidelity, and the complexities of human relationships.

Joel recounted the events of the early 1970s, a time when he was navigating the pressures of rising fame and grappling with a deep sense of isolation. He described the affair with Marie Fisher, who was married to his longtime confidant and close friend, as a devastating turning point.

The emotional fallout from the affair, compounded by the public scrutiny and personal betrayal, led him to a place of despair. “I was a mess,” Joel admitted, his voice laced with emotion. “I felt like I had destroyed everything – my friendship, my reputation, and myself.”

The revelation that Joel attempted suicide twice was particularly shocking. He detailed the desperation he felt at the time, stating that he saw no way out of his emotional pain.

The first attempt involved a significant overdose of medication, while the second involved a more serious and life-threatening act that resulted in him being placed in a coma.

“I woke up in a hospital, not knowing how I got there,” Joel recalled. “It was a terrifying experience. It took a long time to understand what had happened and to begin the long process of healing.” The details he shared were raw and unflinching, painting a vivid picture of the depth of his despair.

The aftermath of the suicide attempts and the coma profoundly impacted Joel’s life and career. He described a period of intense therapy and self-reflection as he worked to understand the underlying causes of his emotional struggles. He acknowledged the destructive nature of his actions and expressed deep remorse for the pain he inflicted on those closest to him.

“I hurt a lot of people,” Joel said, “and I’ll always regret that.” The experience served as a catalyst for personal growth, prompting him to re-evaluate his priorities and to seek a more balanced and meaningful life.

The interview also shed light on the intense pressure Joel faced during his early career. He described the relentless demands of touring, recording, and maintaining a public image as contributing factors to his emotional vulnerability.

He explained that the constant scrutiny and the lack of privacy created a breeding ground for anxiety and self-doubt. “Being in the public eye can be a lonely place,” he stated.

“It’s easy to lose yourself in the noise.” The revelations offered a more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by artists navigating the pressures of fame.

While the interview focused on the dark period of Joel’s life, it also highlighted his resilience and his determination to overcome adversity. He emphasized the importance of seeking help when struggling with mental health issues and encouraged others to prioritize their well-being.

“There’s no shame in admitting you need help,” Joel said. “It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.” His willingness to share his story in such a vulnerable way is likely to inspire others to seek support and to break the stigma surrounding mental health.

The fallout from the affair and the subsequent suicide attempts had a lasting impact on Joel’s personal relationships. He acknowledged that he lost the friendship with his best friend, and that the betrayal had caused irreparable damage.

He also spoke about the difficulty of rebuilding trust and navigating the complexities of family dynamics. He described a period of estrangement from his family as they struggled to understand and cope with the fallout from his actions.

Despite the pain and hardship he endured, Joel has persevered and continued to create some of the most beloved and enduring music of all time. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, regret, and redemption, reflecting his own personal experiences and emotional journey.

Many believe that his willingness to share his story is a testament to his own healing process and a way of connecting with others on a deeper level.

The revelations have prompted a renewed conversation about the importance of mental health support for artists and public figures. Many have criticized the lack of resources and understanding surrounding mental health in the entertainment industry, and have called for greater awareness and compassion.

The story also underscores the devastating consequences of infidelity and the importance of maintaining healthy relationships.

Billy Joel’s decision to share such deeply personal and painful details is a courageous act. He has offered a powerful reminder that even those who appear to have it all can struggle with profound emotional challenges.

His story serves as a beacon of hope for those who are battling their own demons and as a testament to the possibility of healing and redemption.

Ultimately, the interview with Billy Joel is a powerful and moving testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a reminder that vulnerability can be a source of strength, and that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a brighter future.

His openness has undoubtedly touched the hearts of many and has sparked a much-needed conversation about mental health, relationships, and the complexities of life.