Rebel Yell: The Untold Story of Billy Idol's Rock 'n' Roll Journey
The new documentary titled "Billy Idol Should Be Dead" delves into the wild and hedonistic lifestyle of English rocker Billy Idol during the peak of his fame. Idol's career took off after he moved to New York and reinvented himself with the help of guitarist Steve Stevens and manager Bill Aucoin. His solo albums, such as "Billy Idol" and "Rebel Yell," propelled him to stardom, but also fueled his cocaine addiction and wild behavior.
In the 1980s, Idol embraced the carefree atmosphere of the era, indulging in excess and partying as if there were no consequences. His reckless lifestyle led to a heroin overdose in London and a subsequent attempt to kick the habit by smoking crack in the US. Despite his struggles, Idol's antics inadvertently helped revive David Bowie's career when he introduced Bowie to Nile Rodgers, leading to the creation of the successful album "Let's Dance."
Today, Billy Idol has adopted a more subdued lifestyle, limiting his vices to wine and marijuana. Reflecting on his past, he acknowledges that he should have died many times over but feels grateful to still be alive to share his stories. The documentary "Billy Idol Should Be Dead" offers a glimpse into the tumultuous and exhilarating life of a rock icon.
The documentary "Billy Idol Should Be Dead" will premiere on Sky Arts in the UK on March 26th.