‘Before’ Star Billy Crystal Reflects on Loss and His Changed Relationship with God

Billy Crystal has dedicated his life to transforming pain into humor, making his latest revelation particularly poignant. The comedian, known for using laughter as a coping mechanism during tough times, has candidly discussed how a recent wave of loss has profoundly impacted him. His recent interview provides a rare, unfiltered glimpse into the grief experienced by one of Hollywood’s most beloved figures.

The last two years have been incredibly challenging for Crystal. In January 2025, the Palisades fire ravaged the Los Angeles home he shared with his wife, Janice, since 1979, where they raised their children and grandchildren. Then, in December 2025, he faced the tragic murder of his close friend and collaborator Rob Reiner, a loss he poignantly acknowledged during an emotional tribute at the 2026 Oscars.

Crystal revealed that this year of loss has altered his relationship with God. In an interview that aired on October 11, he shared with “CBS Sunday Morning” correspondent Tracy Smith that he no longer communicates with God, stating simply, “I don’t trust Him.” This candid admission took Smith by surprise, prompting her to ask if he was serious.

This statement carries significant weight given Crystal’s background. His Tony-winning 2004 one-man show, ‘700 Sundays,’ explored the loss of his father at the age of 15 and included dialogues with God. As he prepares for his new show, he acknowledged that his faith has been shaken.

He expressed that too many unfortunate events have occurred, and the world currently feels like a frightening, unfamiliar place. This somber reflection contrasts sharply with the optimism typically associated with his persona. However, the interview also underscored that he remains committed to discovering joy.

Crystal emphasized that using humor to navigate through dark times is second nature to him. This instinct is central to his new Broadway show, ‘860,’ which he believes has played a crucial role in his healing process.

Despite this, he admitted that the magnitude of the events—the fire and the losses of Reiner and his wife, Michele—still feels overwhelming even ten months later. Grief, despite his comedic talents, has yet to be fully addressed. This honesty is woven into the narrative he shares on stage.

The show is named after the street address of the home the Crystals lost. Written and performed by Crystal and directed by Scott Ellis, it is currently playing at Broadway’s Imperial Theatre, with previews having started on October 1, an opening night set for October 21, and a run scheduled through January 3, 2027. In announcing the production, Crystal expressed his desire for audiences to “come inside 860,” as noted in the official announcement.

During the show, he recounts the harrowing morning of the fire, detailing the sounds of helicopters and sirens that woke him and the devastation that ensued. A glimmer of hope emerged from the ashes when a decorative rock inscribed with the word “Laughter” was discovered unharmed. Crystal also shared that Reiner played a role in choosing the title, favoring ‘860’ from a list of options and affirming it as the best choice.

Crystal participated in the FireAid benefit concert in January 2025, wearing the same clothes he had on when he fled his home. At the Oscars in March, he led a tribute to Reiner and Michele, joined on stage by over a dozen of Reiner’s former collaborators, including Meg Ryan, Demi Moore, and Kathy Bates.

At 78, he continues to hold onto hope despite the hardships, even if his conversations with God have ceased. The interview paints a picture of a man who is openly grieving, finding laughter where possible, and refusing to pretend that everything is okay. This authenticity may be what allows ‘860’ to resonate with audiences who have experienced their own losses.

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