Joshua Goldman
Joshua Goldman
min read · July 27, 2025 · Entertainment

Billy Joel Clears Up DUI Myths in Candid HBO Documentary

Billy Joel is setting the record straight about the long-standing rumors that he's had multiple DUIs; seen in January 2024

BILLY JOEL SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT: Music Legend Addresses Rumors, Opens Up About Turbulent Past

In a candid and deeply personal two-part HBO documentary, Billy Joel is speaking out against long-standing rumors that have haunted him for years. The 76-year-old music legend tackles the ups and downs of his life in the spotlight, including persistent claims that he's had multiple DUIs.

The Rumors Just Won't Die

The 76-year-old singer, who announced he is battling the brain disorder, normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) , earlier this year, makes it clear: those stories are false; seen earlier this year

Joel makes it clear: those stories are absolutely false. "I didn't like the tabloid kind of press," he says in the film. "For example, there's this rumor that I have all these DUIs. That never happened." He adds with a hint of frustration and defiance, "So f**k you."

The documentary, titled And So It Goes, delves into a turbulent chapter in Joel's life during the mid-2000s when he stepped out of the public eye. During this time, he was involved in several car accidents, leading many to speculate about substance use.

In June 2002, Joel crashed his 1999 Mercedes-Benz. The following year, he drove a 2002 Mercedes into a tree in Sag Harbor and was treated for head injuries. Then, in 2004, he lost control of his 1967 Citroen in Bayville, crashing into an empty house.

In the mid-2000s, the singer was involved in several car accidents, leading many to speculate about substance use (his destoryed Mercedes Benz pictured in 2003)

The Accidents: Substance Use or Emotional Struggles?

While many assumed these incidents were related to substance use, Joel insists that's not the case. He attributes the accidents to emotional struggles, specifically a deep depression triggered by the September 11 attacks and a subsequent breakup.

"My mind wasn't right," he says in the documentary. "I wasn't focused. I went into a deep, deep depression after 9/11... It really, really hurt that man could do that to man."

'I didn't like the tabloid kind of press. For example, there's this rumor that I have all these DUIs,' Joel says in the film. 'That never happened' (seen in 1974)

A Battle with Substance Abuse and Depression

Joel's struggles with substance abuse and depression have been well-documented over the years. In the documentary, he opens up about pre-fame suicide attempts and his mother's alcoholism.

"It's a long story," Joel says in a recent cover story for The Scholarly Note. "I've been to some dark places, but I've always found my way back."

In a 2013 interview with The New York Times Magazine, he clarified: 'I never had a DUI in my life. That's another fallacy. Look at the police records' (seen last year)

A Glimpse into His Turbulent Past

As the documentary takes viewers through Joel's life, including his failed marriages and financial troubles, it's clear that he's come a long way since those tumultuous times.

"I'm not proud of everything I did," he admits. "Some of the stupid stuff I did, that's painful to talk about."

In May, the Piano Man singer shared that he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH); seen in 1978

But with the help of those closest to him, including his sister Judy, daughter Alexa Ray, and longtime friends like lighting designer Steve Cohen, Joel is finally speaking out against the rumors and misconceptions.

A Message of Resilience

Cohen reflects on Joel's drive and resilience: "You make mistakes. He always said to me, 'You show up. You do the best you can. You admit when you're wrong and you let other people tell you how good you are.'"

Joel's illustrious career as a musician began back in the mid-1960, which led to the release of debut studio album, Cold Spring Harbor (1971)

And with And So It Goes, Joel hopes fans will come away with a deeper understanding of the man behind the music.

"I hope fans walk away realizing how f**king human he is," Cohen says. "I hope they come back listening to these songs again with a deeper affection."

A New Chapter: Living with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

In May, Joel shared that he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a condition caused by too much fluid collecting in the brain and spinal cord. The diagnosis has left him dealing with hearing, vision, and balance issues.

A spokesperson for Joel said that his condition has been "exacerbated" by recent performances.

While NPH can often be effectively treated with surgery, it's essential to catch it early to avoid permanent damage.

The Legacy of a Music Legend

As one of the world's best-selling musical artists, Billy Joel has sold over 160 million records worldwide. With an illustrious career spanning decades, his impact on music is undeniable.

From Piano Man (1973) to Fantasies & Delusions (2001), Joel has given us some of our favorite songs and memories. And as he continues to make music and share his story with the world, one thing's for sure: Billy Joel remains an enduring figure in the music industry.

And So It Goes: A Must-See Documentary

Don't miss Billy Joel's candid and deeply personal two-part HBO documentary, And So It Goes, now streaming on The Scholarly Note. With its unflinching look at his life and career, this documentary is a must-watch for fans of the music legend.

With And So It Goes, Billy Joel sets the record straight, opening up about his struggles with substance abuse, depression, and more. And as he shares his story, one thing's clear: we're not just watching a documentary – we're getting to know the real Billy Joel.