Billy Idol is a British-American rock icon and one of the most influential artists of the MTV generation. Known for hits such as “Rebel Yell,” “White Wedding,” and “Dancing With Myself,” Idol blended punk energy with pop accessibility to create a style that shaped 1980s rock culture. With spiked blond hair, leather outfits, and his signature sneer, he became a global symbol of rebellious youth. Now celebrating his 70s, Billy Idol continues to tour, release music, and enjoy life as a proud grandfather. This biography details his age, height, family, career, personal life, fun facts, social media presence, and net worth.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: William Michael Albert Broad
- Stage Name: Billy Idol
- Profession: Rock Singer, Songwriter, Musician
- Birthdate: November 30, 1955
- Age: 70 (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Stanmore, London, England
- Nationality: British-American
- Height: Approx. 5 ft 9 in
- Genres: Punk Rock, Rock, Hard Rock, New Wave
- Net Worth: $50–$60 million (estimated)
Family & Early Background
Billy Idol was born William Broad in Stanmore, England. He adopted the stage name “Idol” after a teacher once called him “idle,” intending it as an insult. Instead, Idol transformed it into a bold persona that defined his career.
Growing up, he was influenced by the rebellious culture of punk rock and the rock revolution of the 1960s and 1970s. His early exposure to music shaped his creative direction and ultimately led him toward the punk movement.
Career & Achievements
Punk Beginnings: Chelsea & Generation X
Idol began his musical journey in the London punk scene. He briefly played guitar for the band Chelsea before co-founding Generation X in 1976. As the band’s frontman, Idol quickly gained attention for his charisma and edgy style.
Their music evolved from aggressive punk to a more melodic sound, producing early hits like “Ready Steady Go” and the original version of “Dancing With Myself.”
Breakthrough in the United States
Idol moved to New York in the early 1980s, where he partnered with guitarist Steve Stevens and producer Keith Forsey. Together, they created the iconic Billy Idol sound—energetic rock infused with new wave and pop rhythms.
- “White Wedding” (1982)
- “Rebel Yell” (1984)
- “Eyes Without a Face”
- “Mony Mony”
- “Flesh for Fantasy”
MTV played a major role in Idol’s rise to global fame. His provocative videos and signature look made him an early superstar of the network’s new visual music era.
Challenges: Accident & Addiction
Idol’s success came with personal struggles. In 1990, he nearly lost his leg in a serious motorcycle accident. The early 1990s also saw a decline in his career due to drug problems and personal turmoil.
A 1994 overdose and collapse outside a Los Angeles nightclub led Idol to rehab, where he began turning his life around. He later credited his children with inspiring him to get clean.
Comeback & Later Success
Idol reunited with guitarist Steve Stevens for the 2005 album Devil’s Playground, marking his official comeback. He has since released multiple albums and EPs and gained renewed critical appreciation.
- Devil’s Playground (2005)
- Kings & Queens of the Underground (2014)
- Dream Into It (2023)
- Performances with the supergroup Generation Sex
Today, Billy Idol tours worldwide and remains a crowd favorite at major rock festivals.
Personal Life & Relationships
Billy Idol has two children from previous relationships:
- Willem Wolf Broad — born 1987, with Perri Lister
- Bonnie Blue Broad — born 1988, with Linda Mathis
He is also a grandfather to Bonnie’s daughter, Poppy, who he says loves tapping her feet to “Rebel Yell.”
Idol is in a long-term relationship with actress China Chow.
Social Media Presence
Billy Idol maintains an active online presence where he shares tour photos, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on his music.
- Instagram: @billyidol — approx. 900k followers
- Twitter/X: @BillyIdol — approx. 900k followers
- Facebook: Billy Idol — approx. 2 million followers
- YouTube: Billy Idol official channel
Trivia & Fun Facts
- His name “Billy Idol” was inspired by being called “idle” by a teacher.
- He almost played the T-1000 in Terminator 2 before his accident.
- His trademark sneer began accidentally and became iconic.
- He appeared as himself in Adam Sandler’s The Wedding Singer.
- His granddaughter loves “Rebel Yell.”
Lesser-Known Facts
- His album Cyberpunk (1993) was one of the earliest digital-era conceptual albums.
- He originally wanted the surname “Idle,” but changed it to “Idol” to avoid copying Eric Idle from Monty Python.
- He was a key figure in bringing punk aesthetic into American pop mainstream.
- His 1990 motorcycle crash forced directors to rewrite his film roles.
Net Worth
Billy Idol’s estimated net worth is $50–$60 million, accumulated through album sales, touring, merchandise, licensing, autobiography sales, and decades of global performances.
FAQs
How old is Billy Idol?
He is 70 years old.
Is Billy Idol still touring?
Yes, he continues to perform globally.
Does Billy Idol have children?
Yes — Willem Wolf and Bonnie Blue.
What is his net worth?
Estimated between $50–$60 million.
Is he a grandfather?
Yes — his granddaughter is named Poppy.
