Billy Joel’s Absence at the 2025 Tribeca Festival: A Celebration of His Legacy
The 2025 Tribeca Festival commenced with the highly anticipated world premiere of the HBO documentary, Billy Joel: And So it Goes. Unfortunately, the legendary musician was unable to attend the event due to his recent diagnosis of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder that has prompted him to cancel upcoming concerts and raised concerns among his devoted fans.
In light of his health situation, Billy Joel was missed at the opening night celebration. However, the film’s directors and producers reassured the audience about Joel’s condition, echoing sentiments shared by his friend Howard Stern. Co-director Susan Lacy told The Hollywood Reporter, “He’s going to be fine. He just needs to recover and do the physical therapy, which he’s currently engaged in. The doctors are optimistic about his prognosis.”
The documentary’s team emphasized that Joel would be back soon, sharing a lighthearted message from the musician himself. “Getting old sucks, but it’s still preferable to getting cremated,” Joel humorously remarked, as Lacy conveyed his words during the screening.
Steve Cohen, Joel’s long-time lighting director and executive producer of And So it Goes, provided an update on Joel’s recovery. “He’s doing great. He’s focused on his healing and recovery,” Cohen shared. “He’s bright, happy, and proud of the work we’ve done. At the end of the day, his health and happiness are what matter most.”
While the film’s premiere was a celebration of Joel’s incredible artistry, the team expressed bittersweet feelings about his absence. Lacy noted, “We wanted him to be here; he wanted to be here. This is a celebration of his legacy, and we wish he could share it with us.” Producer Emma Pildes added, “This is challenging, but it’s a testament to what our bodies can endure. We are here to honor his contributions to music.”
Despite Joel’s absence, the event attracted a star-studded audience, including Whoopi Goldberg, Mariska Hargitay, Mira Sorvino, and Tom Hanks, who serves as an executive producer alongside his Playtone partner Gary Goetzman. Tribeca co-founders Robert De Niro and Jane Rosenthal were also present, paying tribute to Joel by reciting lyrics from his iconic songs like “Movin’ Out,” “Only the Good Die Young,” and “New York State of Mind.”
In a heartfelt statement regarding Joel’s health, De Niro and Rosenthal expressed their unwavering support. “As a New York icon and global music legend, Billy Joel has significantly influenced the cultural landscape of our city and touched audiences worldwide. We extend our love and full support, wishing him a strong and healthy recovery.”
Although only the first part of And So it Goes was screened on Wednesday, both parts are set to premiere on HBO and Max this summer, ensuring that fans will get a comprehensive look at Joel’s remarkable life and career.
As the music community rallies around Billy Joel, his legacy continues to shine brightly, and fans eagerly await his return to the stage.
