Billy Joel has shared his thoughts on Justin Timberlake’s recent arrest, which has made headlines. The incident occurred after Timberlake, 43, was apprehended on DWI charges in Sag Harbor, New York. Joel, 75, was approached by reporters at the American Hotel, the same venue Timberlake visited before his arrest.
“Judge not lest ye be judged,” Joel remarked to PIX11 News outside the hotel. He added that he didn’t have much information about the situation and therefore had “no comment.”
In a social media clip, Joel was asked if he often visited the venue. He responded, “When I’m here, yeah.”
Timberlake was arrested just after midnight on June 18, 2024, after failing to stop at a stop sign in his 2025 BMW. The Sag Harbor Village Police Department stated that Timberlake was found to be operating his vehicle while intoxicated. He was arrested, processed, and held overnight for a morning arraignment. Timberlake was released on his own recognizance after his arraignment at the Sag Harbor Village Justice Court.
The police report, obtained by PEOPLE, indicated that Timberlake “performed poorly on all standardized field sobriety tests.” The arresting officer noted that Timberlake’s “eyes were bloodshot and glassy,” and there was a strong odor of alcohol on his breath. Timberlake also exhibited slowed speech and unsteady movements.
Timberlake claimed to have had “one martini” and refused a breathalyzer test. Following his release, he is scheduled to appear in court for a hearing on July 26. His attorney, Edward Burke Jr., stated that Timberlake looks forward to “vigorously defending” himself against the allegations.
Billy Joel, known for his aversion to being on TV, shared his discomfort with the medium. Despite his long career in the music industry, Joel revealed he feels “camera-shy” and “like a geek” when performing on TV. He prefers live performances where he can be honest about mistakes, unlike the edited nature of television.
Joel’s comments come as Timberlake faces scrutiny for his actions. The pop star, who is currently on a world tour, was reportedly seen partying at the American Hotel before his arrest. A witness claimed Timberlake was “wasted” and even drank someone else’s drink when they left the table.
Timberlake, who shares two children with his wife Jessica Biel, has previously admitted to struggles with “excessive drinking.” His arrest adds to a list of celebrities who have faced legal issues in the Hamptons. Joel himself was arrested in 1992 during a protest against fishing regulations and later entered rehab for alcohol abuse in the early 2000s. He also crashed his car into a tree in Sag Harbor in 2003 but was not arrested or charged.
The incident has sparked a wave of reactions, with many awaiting further developments in Timberlake’s case.
