Billy Joel documentary fans have more to celebrate than ever: as of July 25, 2025, the much-anticipated two-part HBO special “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” has wrapped its premiere, delivering the deepest, most personal look yet into the legendary songwriter’s tumultuous life and prolific career.
In the weeks leading up to the release, anticipation among Joel’s massive fanbase was at an all-time high. The project attracted headlines earlier this summer during its debut at the Tribeca Film Festival and brought extra poignancy in light of Joel’s recent health struggles. Just weeks before the Tribeca premiere, Billy Joel, now 76, revealed a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, a rare brain disorder, leading him to cancel all upcoming concerts. Despite these setbacks, Joel’s lasting spirit and wit shine throughout the documentary, with Joel himself giving candid interviews and asking the filmmakers to “just tell the truth”.
Table of Contents
Inside the Documentary: Raw Truths and Rare Footage
“And So It Goes” unfolds over nearly five hours across two episodes, both now available on HBO and HBO Max. Directors Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin—both Emmy winners—pulled out all the stops, weaving together rare home videos, newly unearthed performance footage, interviews with friends and family (including all three ex-wives and his current spouse), and a treasure trove of personal insights. The filmmakers were granted full access, with Joel finally deciding to share his story after years of resisting such a deep personal reveal.
- Key highlights covered in the documentary:
- Joel’s working-class Long Island childhood and the pain of his father’s absence.
- The dramatic love triangle involving his first wife Elizabeth Weber and bandmate Jon Small, a crisis that led him to attempt suicide twice in his twenties.
- Struggles with alcoholism, mental health challenges, and the price of fame.
- Rare insights into Joel’s creative process, exploring how songs like “Vienna” drew inspiration from his grandparents’ experiences fleeing Nazi Germany.
- His navigation of romance, heartbreak, and complex family relationships, all told with unfiltered honesty.
Critical Reception and Audience Response
The Billy Joel documentary stands out for its willingness to tackle both triumphant milestones and painful missteps. Unlike many music documentaries, “And So It Goes” does not shy away from Joel’s shortcomings or controversial life chapters. The film explores his professional highs—Grammy wins, sold-out stadiums, anthems like “Piano Man” and “Uptown Girl”—while bravely discussing the lows, such as infidelity, shattered relationships, and battles with critics.
Reviewers have praised the film for its candor and cinematic polish. Rather than painting an airbrushed portrait, it gives “a rare, revelatory glimpse into the private world of one of rock music’s most enduring acts,” as Joel opens up about events he calls “painful to talk about”. With close to five hours of screen time, fans and newcomers alike uncover new sides of the artist—his regrets, resilience, and relentless pursuit of musical excellence.
The release also coincides with a unique treat for fans: a companion digital album featuring 100 tracks, including never-before-released songs, deep cuts, and live recordings from across Joel’s six-decade career.
Where and How to Watch
- Both parts of “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” are now streaming on HBO Max.
- Each episode runs about two-and-a-half hours, offering comprehensive access to the life and music of one of America’s most beloved singer-songwriters.
- For the best viewing experience, fans recommend watching both segments to grasp the full arc of Joel’s journey—from early struggles to superstar status and family life in the present day.
Billy Joel’s story is one of resilience, honesty, and enduring artistry. For those who have sung along to “Piano Man” or simply want to understand how an icon is made, “And So It Goes” is must-see television. Share your thoughts on the documentary in the comments, and let us know which moment surprised you the most!