Billy Joel Gives Rehab Another Go

By: Shannon Gossage

Billy Joel’s publicist confirmed that the 54-year old singer-songwriter has once again sought treatment for his battle with alcoholism. His rep said in a statement, "Following a recent bout of severe gastro-intestinal distress, Billy Joel has checked himself into an undisclosed rehabilitation facility for treatment of alcohol abuse. Mr. Joel asked that his privacy be respected."

Last month, Joel checked himself into the hospital for severe stomach pains and his rep squashed rumors that he was suffering from pancreatitis, which is usually related to heavy alcohol abuse. The singer has had his fair share of hospital visits over the past three-years. In June 2002, Joel suffered minor injuries after crashing his car on Long Island. He subsequently checked into the Silver Hill Hospital in Connecticut for treatment of a substance abuse problem. He said in an interview after his release that a respiratory infection caused a depression that lead him to a "prolonged period of overindulgence." He also said of daughter Alexa Ray, "I told my daughter that I recognized that I was having a problem. And my gift to her for Father’s Day was going to be cleaning up my act."

In January 2003, he was again involved in a car accident that left him hospitalized overnight. Firefighters had to pull Joel from his totaled car after he crashed into a tree on Long Island. And just last April he lost control while driving and ended up crashing into a 94-year old woman’s home. Joel recently tied the knot for the third time. In October, he wed 23-year old television correspondent Katie Lee. He has also recently written a children’s book Good Night, My Angel: A Lullabye.