Billy Idol Should Be Dead is a raw documentary that dives into the punk rock legend’s incredible five-decade music career and his near-fatal battle with heroin in 1984. The film premiered at Tribeca and showcases his journey from a British punk rebel to an MTV superstar.
Idol reflects on his past, saying, “There was just like a 10-year period, I was a bit of a drug addict and stuff. But I’ve always lived a little bit on the edge. I think it was part of exploring this world that we were going into, the music world.” After leaving Generation X in 1981, he launched a solo career that helped shape MTV’s visual style. A serious motorcycle accident in 1990 almost cost him his leg, but he bounced back.
Filmmaker David Fincher played a key role in Idol’s comeback. Idol recalls, “David Fincher had this idea about me being a sort of a picture on the wall, which would come to life,” while they worked on the music video for “Cradle of Love.”
Even after all these years, Idol still feels the thrill of performing. He recently shared the stage with rising star YUNGBLUD in the UK. “I do see a lot of myself in him. It’s great seeing people excited about a performer like him and someone who’s that excited about rock and roll music,” he said.
Idol’s latest album, Dream Into It, has just been released. He’s hitting the road with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, with South American dates lined up after a show at LA’s Kia Forum. Fans can check out the tour schedule and grab tickets online.
