An important update has emerged from one of the directors of the highly anticipated two-part Billy Joel documentary, Billy Joel: And So It Goes. This update comes two months after the iconic 76-year-old “Piano Man” revealed his diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, a serious brain disorder that significantly impacts health.
Co-director Susan Lacy shared insights during an interview with Good Morning America on Wednesday, July 16, stating that Joel is actively engaged in physical therapy and is on a healing journey, focusing on improving his health. After announcing the diagnosis, Joel made the difficult decision to cancel all scheduled summer performances due to this condition, which can have detrimental effects on his vision, hearing, and balance.
At the time of the cancellations, Joel expressed that this decision was made following a significant worsening of his condition, which was “exacerbated by recent concert performances.” He experienced increased issues with his hearing, vision, and balance. Under medical guidance, Billy is currently undergoing targeted physical therapy and has been advised to avoid performing during this crucial recovery phase. He has expressed gratitude for the exceptional care he is receiving and is fully dedicated to prioritizing his overall health.
As detailed by the Cleveland Clinic, normal pressure hydrocephalus occurs when there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the skull, which puts pressure on the brain. This can hinder cognitive functions such as thinking and concentration, as well as impairing memory and movement. Treatment options may include the surgical implantation of a shunt to facilitate the drainage of the excess fluid, effectively alleviating the pressure on the brain.
The legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Famer initially postponed several summer shows to undergo treatment after surgery. He had originally intended to resume his tour dates starting July 5 with a concert in Pittsburgh. However, in May, he made the difficult announcement to cancel all of his shows scheduled for 2025. This tour included highly anticipated performances at Yankee Stadium and Citi Field in New York, as well as MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, along with additional concerts in Cincinnati, New Orleans, Santa Clara, Hollywood, and Washington D.C.
The first part of the documentary, co-directed by Jessica Levin, is set to premiere on HBO Max on Friday, July 18, with the second part following soon after on July 25. This captivating film chronicles Joel’s journey, starting from his childhood and moving through his rise to fame, while also highlighting challenging periods in his life. The documentary delves into the stories behind cherished songs such as “River of Dreams” and “New York State of Mind,” offering fans a deeper understanding of the artist’s legacy.
Be sure to check out a preview of the documentary below.
