Christie Brinkley is offering a reassuring update on ex-husband Billy Joel, giving fans a glimpse into how the legendary singer is doing following a challenging year for his health.
While attending the City Harvest 2026 Benefit Gala in New York City on Tuesday, April 21, Brinkley shared with HELLO! that Joel is in a good place as he continues his recovery.
Brinkley Gives an Update
“He’s doing very well,” she said, adding that she had recently missed a special moment involving their daughter, Alexa Ray Joel. “She was so excited to be able to perform for him and I was sorry that I had to miss that night. I was out of town, but otherwise it was so wonderful.”
Brinkley and Joel were married from 1985 to 1994 and welcomed Alexa the same year they tied the knot.
Though their marriage ended decades ago, the two have remained connected through their daughter and shared history — something that continues to resonate during moments like these.
Joel Revealed He Was Suffering From NPH
Joel’s health became a concern for fans in 2025 after he experienced a fall onstage earlier in the year.
In May, he revealed he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition that can impact balance, vision and hearing.
At the time, he announced he would be stepping away from performing to focus on treatment.
“Billy Joel has announced that he will be cancelling all scheduled concerts following a recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH),” a statement read. “This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision, and balance.”
The message also emphasized that he was undergoing physical therapy and prioritizing his health, with Joel adding, “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
Joel Made a Surprise Appearance in January
Despite the setback, Joel has shown signs of progress.
In January 2026, he made a surprise appearance in Wellington, Florida during the town’s 30th anniversary celebration.
Joining a local cover band onstage, he performed hits like “We Didn’t Start the Fire” and “Big Shot,” joking to the crowd, “I wasn’t planning on working tonight.”
The moment was made even more special as his daughters danced nearby, highlighting the family-centered joy of his return — even if brief.
Alexa has also been vocal about her admiration for her father.
In a heartfelt Father’s Day tribute in 2025, she wrote, “Thanks for giving me all the love, wisdom, melodies, heart, and soul I could ever ask for… Every moment with you is an instant classic.”
More recently, she honored him again by performing his song “This Night” at a tribute concert at Carnegie Hall in March 2026.
For now, Joel remains focused on recovery, having canceled tour dates through July 2026 as he continues therapy.
Brinkley’s update offers a hopeful note amid the uncertainty, reinforcing that while he may be offstage for the moment, he’s still very much surrounded by love, support and steady progress.
And if recent appearances are any indication, fans may not have to wait long for Joel to be back to performing.
