Billy Joel: And So It Goes is a 2025 HBO Original two-part documentary directed by Emmy winners Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin. The series gives an intimate and emotional look at the life and music of Billy Joel, one of America’s most iconic singer-songwriters.
Premiering at the Tribeca Festival before its HBO/Max release in July 2025, the documentary traces Joel’s journey from his Long Island upbringing to worldwide fame. Featuring rare concert footage, home videos, and new interviews with Billy Joel and those closest to him—including family, ex-wives, bandmates, and stars like Bruce Springsteen and Paul McCartney—it explores themes of love, heartbreak, resilience, and artistic growth.
The title, taken from Joel’s deeply personal song “And So It Goes,” reflects the documentary’s focus on the emotional truth behind his music.
Billy Joel: And So It Goes Age Rating
Billy Joel: And So It Goes is rated TV-MA for mature thematic content and strong language, making it more appropriate for older viewers. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of key content areas to help families decide if it’s right for younger viewers.
Violence & Peril
There are no violent scenes or dangerous situations. However, the series does discuss past accidents (such as a near-fatal motorcycle crash), emotional trauma, and Joel’s mental health struggles, which may be intense for younger audiences.
Language
The documentary contains strong language, mostly in interviews or when recalling past events. Viewers may hear uncensored use of adult terms, often in emotional or reflective contexts.
Mature Themes
The series explores heavy real-life topics, including:
- Alcohol abuse
- Divorce and personal loss
- Depression and emotional vulnerability
- The pressures of fame and public life
While handled with care, these topics may be too deep or complex for younger teens and children.
Is Billy Joel: And So It Goes Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable: The documentary’s adult language and mature emotional themes make it inappropriate for children and tweens. It’s more reflective than graphic, but still requires a level of maturity to understand and process the content.
Ages 13–17: Caution advised: Teens who are fans of Billy Joel or music history may find the series interesting, but parental guidance is strongly recommended. The emotional weight of the topics discussed—especially struggles with addiction, relationships, and mental health—might be too intense for younger teens. Older, mature teens (16+) may appreciate the documentary with adult context.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: If your teen is curious about music documentaries or Billy Joel, consider watching it with them. This allows you to pause and talk about the deeper themes as needed.
Prepare for Tough Topics: Let your teen know in advance that the documentary discusses real struggles, including personal trauma, addiction, and divorce. Be ready to answer any questions or offer reassurance.
Highlight the Positive Messages: Use the series as a way to talk about resilience, artistic expression, and the value of facing personal challenges honestly.
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Billy Joel: And So It Goes?
A: The documentary is rated TV-MA for strong language and mature themes.
Q: Is Billy Joel: And So It Goes appropriate for teens?
A: It’s best for older teens (16+) with parental guidance. Younger viewers may find the topics too heavy.
Q: Does the series include graphic content?
A: No. While it discusses emotional and personal struggles, there is no graphic imagery or violent content.
Q: Are there sexual or suggestive scenes in the documentary?
A: No. The series focuses on relationships and personal life, but does not show any sexual content.
Q: Where can I watch Billy Joel: And So It Goes?
A: The two-part documentary will air on HBO and stream on Max. Part 1 premieres July 18, 2025, and Part 2 follows on July 25, 2025.