Who Is Billy Idol’s Wife? A Look at His Dating History

Billy Idol, the British punk rock legend whose rebellious spirit and iconic image have defined him since the late 1970s, has not only revolutionized music but also captivated the public with his colorful love life. With a career spanning decades, Idol’s romantic history is as intriguing as his chart-topping hits.

Born William Michael Albert Broad on November 30, 1955, in Stanmore, Middlesex, England (now Greater London), Idol is of English descent with some Irish heritage from his father’s side. Raised in a Christian household, his early education included Anglican schools. His father, William Broad Sr., was an engineer who worked on major projects like the Concorde, while his mother, Joan Broad, balanced homemaking with part-time work as a librarian. Idol has an older brother, Steve Broad, who has stayed out of the entertainment spotlight.

As a student, Idol attended Ravensbourne Primary School and Worthing High School for Boys, where his rebellious streak was evident. He briefly attended the University of Sussex but left to pursue his passion for music. Later, he studied English literature at Bromley Technical College before dropping out to focus on his band, Generation X.

Despite his larger-than-life persona, Billy Idol has never married. His most notable relationship was with Perri Lister, a fellow artist and performer. For nearly a decade, they share a son, Willem Wolf Broad, who has followed his father’s musical path as a member of the FIM rock band. Idol also has a daughter, Bonnie Blue Broad, from his relationship with Linda Mathis. Bonnie, now a yoga instructor and mother, has embraced her own artistic journey. He also has a son named Brant Broad.

From long-term partnerships to fleeting romances, Billy Idol’s love life reflects the same unrestrained energy that defines his music. Here, we take a closer look at the relationships that have shaped the off-stage narrative of this enduring rock icon.

The Early Years

Joan Jett (1978)

Before he became Billy Idol, William Broad was just another punk rocker in London. His relationship with Joan Jett, another punk rock legend, was brief but emblematic of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. Their connection was more about shared music scenes than a deep personal bond.

Justine Bateman

In the early ’80s, as Idol‘s star began to rise in the U.S., he was linked with actress Justine Bateman, known for “Family Ties.” This relationship was part of his immersion into Hollywood’s social scene.

The ’80s: Love in the Limelight

Perri Lister (1980 – 1989)

Perhaps the most significant relationship of his life, Idol‘s nearly decade-long romance with Perri Lister, a dancer and actress, was both professional and personal. Lister appeared in several of Idol‘s music videos and bore him a son, Willem Wolfe Broad, in 1988. Their relationship ended as Idol‘s battle with substance abuse intensified.

Maria Conchita Alonso (1989)

Following his split with Lister, Idol had a brief but high-profile relationship with actress and singer Maria Conchita Alonso. Their time together was marked by media attention but did not last long.

Melissa Gilbert (1986)

Idol dated “Little House on the Prairie” star Melissa Gilbert in one of his more surprising liaisons. Their short relationship highlighted the eclectic nature of Idol’s romantic choices.

Vanity (1984)

Denise Katrina Matthews, known as Vanity, was a singer, actress, and Prince‘s protégé. Their brief but intense relationship was fueled by the fast-paced, hedonistic lifestyle of the ’80s.

Linda Mathis (1988 – 1990)

After Lister, Idol found solace with Mathis, though this too was a brief chapter in his life.

Bunty Bailey (1987 – 1988)

Known for her iconic appearance in the “Cradle of Love” video, Bailey‘s relationship with Idol was more about image and less about longevity.

The ’90s: A Decade of Transition

Shanna Moakler (1994 – 1996)

Idol‘s relationship with the model and future reality TV star was one of his more extended romances in the ’90s, reflecting his attempt at stability amid personal turmoil.

Peggy Trentini (1991) and Josi Campos (1991)

Both relationships were part of a tumultuous year where Idol was navigating his career and personal life.

Tammy Pobi (1995)

Another short-lived romance, indicative of Idol‘s ongoing personal reinvention.

Sherilyn Fenn

Known for her role in “Twin Peaks,” Fenn and Idol shared a connection that was as enigmatic as the show she starred in.

Drew Barrymore (1994)

Rumors circulated about a link with Barrymore, though this was never confirmed, adding to the mystique of Idol’s personal life.

Encounters and Rumours

Idol‘s life was punctuated by numerous encounters that added to his rock star legend:

Hilary Herth, Grace Hattersley, Brooke Fields, Julia Roberts

Each name represents a brief moment in Idol‘s prolific social calendar, often with figures from the entertainment industry.

Adult Film Stars

Relationships with Ginger Lynn, Savannah, and Seka were part of Idol‘s less publicized but well-known escapades.

Other Notable Encounters

Heather McCartney, Kristi Gibson, Linda Susebach, Pleasant Gehman, Heather Hart, and Bridgette Monroe all crossed paths with Idol, contributing to his image as a free spirit.

Later Years and Reflections:

China Chow (2018)

In recent years, Idol‘s relationship with actress and model China Chow was one of his more public and serious connections, showcasing a more mature side of the rock star.

Lindsay Cross (2008)

Another relationship that didn’t garner as much attention but was part of Idol‘s ongoing personal narrative.