Alexa Ray Joel collapses onstage during New York performance
Alexa Ray Joel is recovering after collapsing during a performance in New York Saturday night.
The 28-year-old daughter of Billy Joel and Christie Brinkley was two songs into her set at Manhattan's Cafe Carlyle when she fainted suddenly onstage in front of the audience, according to the New York Times. Joel was performing the last of nine shows as part of a limited engagement at the Carlyle.
A representative for the singer-songwriter said she was taken to New York Presbyterian Hospital and diagnosed with vasovagal syncope, one of the most common causes of fainting. The condition is sparked by a trigger, such as emotional distress, and leads to a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure, which causes temporary unconsciousness.
"I wanted to thank everyone for coming out to support me," Joel said in a statement. "I was excited and determined to fulfill my final performance and I really wanted to end my run with a bang, but this was not what I had in mind and hope I have the opportunity to make it up to the wonderful audience very soon."
Joel is the only child between Billy Joel and Brinkley, who were married from 1985-1994. Brinkley has two other children from later marriages.
On Monday, Brinkley sent thanks on Twitter to fans and others who showed support for her daughter:
