Billy Joel’s daughter, Alexa Ray Joel, is sharing a heartfelt message in the wake of her father’s recent health diagnosis — and she’s doing it with the kind of emotional grace that echoes the lyrics her father once penned just for her.
The 76-year-old music icon revealed on Friday, May 23, that he has been diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) — a neurological condition caused by excess cerebrospinal fluid accumulating in the brain’s ventricles. The condition can result in issues with hearing, vision, balance, and memory, and has led the “Piano Man” legend to cancel all scheduled concerts as he undergoes treatment.
On Saturday, Alexa Ray Joel, 39, took to Instagram to express her love and support. Sharing a touching black-and-white image of a father holding his daughter’s hand, she wrote, “We love you and we got you, Pop!” She thanked fans for their “beautiful outpouring of love and support,” and called her father “the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known.”
Joel, the daughter of Billy and supermodel Christie Brinkley, emphasized that her father is “entirely committed to making a full recovery” through ongoing physical therapy. She also noted that the outpouring of care and concern has deeply moved both her and her father.
Closing the tribute with a poignant reminder of their bond, she quoted from the 1993 lullaby her father wrote just for her:
“Someday we’ll all be gone / But lullabies go on and on / They never die / That’s how you and I will be.”
Billy Joel’s official statement, posted to Instagram, explained that his condition has been aggravated by the physical demands of performing, prompting doctors to advise a temporary break from touring while he focuses on recovery. The legendary performer is currently undergoing specialized physical therapy and remains under close medical supervision.
Fans who purchased tickets to upcoming shows in New York City, New Orleans, Toronto, Santa Clara, Salt Lake City, Washington, D.C., and Liverpool will automatically receive refunds, with no action needed.
This pause comes just months after the Grammy-winning artist slipped during a performance in Connecticut back in February. By March, Joel had already postponed several concerts through June to prioritize his health.
Despite the setback, Joel remains optimistic and appreciative. In his message, he thanked fans for their patience and understanding, writing, “I’m sincerely sorry to disappoint our audience, and thank you for understanding.”
Joel, who shares two younger daughters — Della Rose, 9, and Remy Anne, 7 — with wife Alexis Roderick, has enjoyed one of the most celebrated careers in music history. With over 150 million records sold, five Grammy wins, and induction into both the Songwriters and Rock & Roll Halls of Fame, Joel’s legacy is firmly cemented in American music.
In July 2024, he capped off a record-setting 10-year residency at Madison Square Garden with his 150th performance — a fitting milestone for an artist whose songs have provided the soundtrack to generations.
Now, as he turns his focus to healing, it’s clear he won’t be doing it alone. With the unwavering love of his family and the support of millions of fans, the music — and the memories — will continue on.
