Christie Brinkley is showing her support for ex-husband Billy Joel following news of his recent health diagnosis.
On Saturday (May 24), the 71-year-old model took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute to Joel, 76, just one day after he revealed he had been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a type of brain disorder.
“Dear Billy, the whole Brinkley gang is sending you lots of love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery,” Brinkley wrote on Instagram. Her message was accompanied by video clips of herself and daughter Sailor Brinkley Cook — whose father is Peter Cook — attending one of Joel’s past concerts.
“I was looking for some cute photos of you and Alexa to send you, when I came across this clip from a recent concert,” she continued. “It made me laugh … but it also reminded me of all the joy you create, and all the sensational sing a longs you’ve lead… You turn an arena of strangers into a living room full of friends as we all sway in unison.”
Brinkley closed her message with an emotional note of encouragement.
“I’m sure I’m speaking for everyone in that room when I say please take good care of yourself, we all want you back in that white hot spotlight, you’re OUR piano man,” she wrote. “And we’re always in the mood for your melodies And we all hope you’re feeling alright! We Love You, the kids, me and an arena or two!”
Brinkley and Joel married in 1985 and welcomed daughter Alexa Ray Joel that same year. The couple divorced in 1994 after nearly a decade together.
Just last month, Brinkley was spotted in the audience at Joel’s concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden, smiling and dancing along to his 1983 hit “Uptown Girl” — a song he famously wrote with Brinkley in mind. In Fred Schruers’ 2014 biography Billy Joel: The Definitive Biography, the iconic musician revealed that the track was initially inspired by the models of Manhattan, but he changed the title from plural to singular after beginning his relationship with Brinkley.
Earlier this week, Joel announced he would be canceling all upcoming shows due to complications from NPH.
“This condition has been exacerbated by recent concert performances, leading to problems with hearing, vision and balance,” he said in a statement. “Under his doctor’s instructions, Billy is undergoing specific physical therapy and has been advised to refrain from performing during this recovery period. Billy is thankful for the excellent care he is receiving and is fully committed to prioritizing his health.”
The cancellations include several scheduled appearances throughout summer and fall 2025, as well as early 2026, including joint shows with Sting, Rod Stewart, and Stevie Nicks.
