Christie Brinkley Shares Encouraging Update on Ex-Husband Billy Joel's Health Battle

Model Christie Brinkley issued a recent update on her ex-husband Billy Joel and his battle with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a chronic brain disorder.

NPH is characterized by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid, which leads to pressure on the brain. The pressure causes gait problems, cognitive issues and urinary incontinence.

NPH is most common in people over 65. Joel, 76, revealed his diagnosis last May when he canceled all concerts up to early July 2026 as a result of the condition.

Despite battle, Joel 'doing very well'

Brinkley, 72, was married to Joel from 1985 and 1994 and shares a daughter, Alexa Ray, with the "Piano Man" singer. In an interview with HELLO! Magazine at the City Harvest 2026 Benefit Gala in New York City last Tuesday, Brinkley, said her former spouse was "doing very well."

She also discussed Alexa's performance of her father's song "This Night" at a Carnegie Hall benefit concert last month.

"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 explained.

Alexa Ray has made her love for father clear

Shortly after her father went public with his diagnosis, Alexa Ray Joel sent him a public message of support.

“We love you and we got you, Pop! I just wanted to thank you all for the beautiful outpouring of love and support amid the recent news of My Father’s health diagnosis,” she said at the time. “My Dad is the strongest and most resilient man I’ve ever known… and he’s entirely committed to making a full recovery with ongoing physical-therapy treatments as he continues to regain his strength.”

Prior to her Carnegie Hall appearance in March, Alexa Ray spoke with The Hollywood Reporterand issued an update on her dad.

“He’s lost weight as he’s on his diet,” she said. “I’m so proud of him. He’s such a trooper, so resilient and committed to being healthy and proactive. He’s a fighter.”