Christie Brinkley’s New Memoir Uptown Girl

Supermodel, entrepreneur, and eternal optimist Christie Brinkley is ready to share her life story like never before. At 71, the iconic Cover Girl and Sports Illustrated legend is releasing her highly anticipated memoir, Uptown Girl, on April 29, 2025. In an exclusive interview with Forbes, Brinkley opens up about her journey, her fears, and why now was the perfect time to put pen to paper.  

Why Christie Brinkley Wrote “Uptown Girl”

Brinkley admits she hesitated before writing her memoir. “I was nervous—who would want to read my story?” she confesses. But after decades of journaling and encouragement from loved ones, she realized her experiences could inspire others. “Life isn’t about fame or fortune,” she says. “It’s about saying ‘yes’ to adventure and finding joy in every moment, big or small” .  


The title Uptown Girl is a playful nod to her ex-husband Billy Joel’s 1983 hit song, which featured Brinkley in its music video. But the book goes far beyond their romance. It’s a raw, heartfelt reflection on her 50-year career, four marriages, near-death experiences, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.  

Key Moments That Shaped Christie’s Life

1. The Helicopter Crash That Changed Everything  

In 1994, Brinkley survived a terrifying helicopter crash while heli-skiing in Telluride. The chopper plummeted 300 feet, leaving her trapped in wreckage and dragging her toward a cliff. Miraculously, snow stopped the fall. “Waking up after that crash felt like euphoria,” she recalls. “Every day since has been a gift” .  


The trauma left her with PTSD, but it also deepened her gratitude. Years later, she faced another helicopter ride when her daughter Alexa Ray fainted at college. “I had to push through fear to be there for her,” Brinkley says. “That’s what love does” .  


2. Her Father’s Lasting Influence

Brinkley’s father urged her to write about her early days in Paris, where she was discovered at 20 outside a phone booth. “He told me, ‘If you do nothing else, write about Paris,’” she shares. Those journals—filled with 60 years of memories—became the backbone of her memoir .  


3. Love, Loss, and Billy Joel  

Brinkley’s marriage to Billy Joel was a whirlwind of adventure but also heartbreak. She describes their bond as “soulmate” material but admits his struggles with alcoholism strained their relationship. Joel once disappeared for days after their daughter’s birthday party, leaving Brinkley in panic. “Booze became the ‘other woman,’” she writes. Despite the pain, she says, “I’ll love him forever” .  

From Supermodel to Business Mogul

Brinkley’s career isn’t just about magazine covers. She’s a savvy entrepreneur with ventures like Bellissima Prosecco, a skincare line, and even a Broadway stint in Chicago. “Taking on Roxie Hart was terrifying,” she says. “I didn’t know how to sing or dance, but I channeled everything into that role” .  


Her 25-year Cover Girl contract—the longest in modeling history—taught her the power of authenticity. “My smiles in ads were real,” she laughs. “I’d giggle on set! People thought I was crazy, but that joy kept me going” .  

Brinkley’s Message to Readers: “Embrace the Adventure”

Uptown Girl isn’t just a memoir—it’s a guide to living fearlessly. Brinkley hopes her stories encourage readers to:  

- Chase joy: “Find magic in small moments, like sunlight after a storm.”  

- Trust yourself: “I learned to say ‘no’ to things I didn’t believe in, like wearing fur.”  

- Rise after failure: “Divorces and crashes crushed me, but they also propelled me forward”

Fun Facts & Behind-the-Scenes Tidbits

Art Lovers, Rejoice! The book includes 100+ photos and Brinkley’s original artwork.  

- Nancy Meyers Vibes: Brinkley jokes her life could be a Nancy Meyers film. “My publisher agreed—so here’s the book!” .  

- Family First: Her kids Sailor, Jack, and Alexa Ray helped edit the memoir. “They’re my greatest legacy,” she says .  

Pre-Order “Uptown Girl” Today!

Brinkley’s memoir is available for pre-order on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and indie bookstores like Bethany Beach Books (which offers signed copies!). Priced at $23.80 (30% off the $34 list price), it’s a perfect Mother’s Day gift or summer read .  

Final Thoughts from Christie

“Life’s twists are unpredictable,” Brinkley says. “But if you stay open to wonder, you’ll always find your way.” With Uptown Girl, she proves that resilience, laughter, and love can turn even the messiest moments into something beautiful.  




Pre-order “Uptown Girl: A Memoir” here and follow Christie Brinkley on Instagram @christiebrinkley for updates!