Christie Brinkley Reflects on Love, Life, and Resilience at 71: “I’m Still Open to Romance”
Christie Brinkley, the iconic supermodel and actress whose career has spanned over five decades, recently joined Loose Women to share insights from her personal and professional journey. Speaking from New York, the 71-year-old reflected on her vibrant career, her enduring connection with ex-husband Billy Joel, and her hopes for the future, including the possibility of finding love again.
A Love That Still Resonates
Brinkley, famously known as Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl" from the legendary music video, spoke warmly of their time together, describing Joel as “the love of my life.” However, she added with a hopeful smile, “Maybe the love of my life is still out there waiting to meet him.”
Their relationship, Christie shared, was filled with excitement and wonder. “We never took anything for granted. It was incredible—touring, staying in the fanciest hotels in Europe, and living this extraordinary life,” she recalled. Though their marriage ended, Brinkley emphasized the importance of maintaining a friendship. “With Billy, I always knew I wanted to be friends forever, and thankfully, we are.”
Despite their amicable bond, Christie admitted the decision to end the marriage was a difficult one, largely driven by Joel’s struggles with alcohol. “I tried everything—perfecting myself, our home, and even seeking help for him—but at a certain point, I realized I had to choose self-preservation and move on,” she candidly revealed.
A Memoir Decades in the Making
Brinkley’s new memoir, Uptown Girl, captures her extraordinary life, from her early modeling days to navigating the challenges of fame, love, and family. She explained why it took her so long to write it: “I’ve been keeping journals for over 50 years, so in a way, I felt like I was already writing my book. But now at 71, it felt like a ‘now or never’ moment.”
The memoir offers readers a mix of heartfelt and humorous stories, including glimpses into her romantic Parisian years and even the lighter side of her divorces, which she joked could inspire a Nancy Meyers movie. “I included stories that people could relate to, laugh at, or see the full truth behind the headlines,” she said.
A Tale of Two Fathers
One of the more poignant parts of her memoir is the story of her two fathers. She detailed her complicated relationship with her biological father, who she says “never treated me with love or respect,” and the transformative love of her stepfather, Don Brinkley.
“When he came into my life at 8 years old, it was like my black-and-white movie turned into a widescreen, Technicolor film,” she shared. “He opened our eyes to adventure, beauty, and culture. He truly gave me an incredible life.”
Life, Love, and Family Today
At 71, Brinkley remains as radiant and vibrant as ever, with a full life centered around her three children, friends, and a bustling household. “My house is always bursting at the seams with family and friends. There’s always so much action—it’s wonderful,” she said.
When asked if she’s still open to romantic love, Brinkley didn’t hesitate. “Oh, absolutely. I’d love to be swept off my feet, but it just hasn’t happened yet,” she admitted with a laugh.
A Heartfelt Tribute to Billy Joel
Shortly after the interview, news broke that Billy Joel had been diagnosed with a brain condition affecting his hearing, vision, and balance. Christie responded with a heartfelt message:
“Dear Billy, the whole Brinkley gang is sending you lots of love and good wishes for a full and speedy recovery. You turn an arena of strangers into a room full of friends. Please take good care of yourself—we all want you back in that spotlight. You’re our piano man. We love you.”
The sincerity of her words reflects the enduring bond between the two, despite their differences.
An Icon Who Inspires
As the interview wrapped up, Christie was invited to join the Loose Women panel in person if she ever visits the UK. Her enthusiasm was clear: “I’d love to be a Loose Woman for the day!”
With her beauty, charm, and resilience, Christie Brinkley continues to inspire millions, proving that age is just a number and love, in all its forms, is always worth believing in. Her memoir, Uptown Girl, is now available and promises readers an intimate look into the life of one of the world’s most iconic women.
