American singer and song writer Billy Joel, who is also known as the Piano Man, has received a strong support from veteran star Robert De Niro.
The 76-year-old has been diagnosed with brain disorder normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) for which he is getting the prescribed treatment.
Due to his illness, Joel was not not able to attend the premiere of his two-part documentary, titled Billy Joel: And So It Goes, at the Tribeca Film Festival.
Amid his absence, co-founders of the festival De Niro and Jane Rosenthal significantly mentioned their unwell colleague in the opening remarks and also wished him a 'speedy recovery'.
The Intern star added, “He’s our piano man, a wonderful, beautiful part of the heart of our city. Tonight, you get to see the man behind the music and behind the legend. You’re in for a real treat.”
Meanwhile, Jane also gave a shoutout to Joel by saying, “Billy wanted to be with us tonight, but as you may have heard, he’s dealing with a health issue and had to postpone his performances – including this one tonight,”
“We know you’ll join us in wishing him a speedy recovery”, she said.
The documentary was officially screened at the New York’s Beacon theatre, directed by Susan Lacy and Jessica Levin.