Pop star Justin Timberlake has revealed he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease, shedding light on recent speculation surrounding his health and performances during his extensive world tour.
In a candid Instagram post, Timberlake wrote: “I’ve been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme disease, which I don’t say so you feel bad for me, but to shed some light on what I’ve been up against behind the scenes.”
Lyme disease, a serious bacterial illness typically contracted via tick bites, has become increasingly prevalent across the United States in recent years, as rising temperatures allow tick populations to flourish.
“If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has, then you’re aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically,” Timberlake continued. “When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure. But, at least I could understand why I would be on stage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness.”
His announcement follows more than a year of touring as part of the Forget Tomorrow world tour, which began in April 2024, shortly after the release of his latest album, Everything I Thought It Was. During the tour, Timberlake faced criticism from some concertgoers who described his performances as lacklustre, pointing to apparent signs of fatigue or poor health.
Addressing these concerns directly, the singer said: “I was faced with a personal decision. Stop touring? Or, keep going and figure it out. I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”
Timberlake added that, despite his initial reluctance to speak publicly about the diagnosis, he wanted to be more transparent so fans would not misinterpret his struggles.
“I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself. But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles,” he wrote. “Not only did I prove my mental tenacity to myself, but I now have so many special moments with all of you that I will never forget.”
The post prompted an outpouring of support online, with fans thanking him for his honesty and encouraging him to prioritise his wellbeing.
“You are so loved, and we’ll be here supporting whatever you decide to do next,” wrote one fan. Another commented: “Take care of yourself. We love you and will continue to ride for you.”
According to Billboard, the Forget Tomorrow tour has grossed $73.2 million across 41 shows as of late May, placing Timberlake in 10th position on the publication’s midyear Boxscore report of top-grossing touring artists.
Timberlake fast-rise
Timberlake joins a growing list of high-profile musicians who have gone public about their experiences with Lyme disease. Others include Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber and Shania Twain, all of whom have spoken about the long and difficult road to diagnosis and recovery.
Lyme disease can cause a range of symptoms including rashes, fever, chills, fatigue, and joint pain. In some cases, the illness may last for months or even years if not properly treated. Warmer climates have contributed to a surge in tick populations in the US, leading to increased transmission.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), May and June this year saw the highest number of emergency room visits for tick bites during those months since 2019.
Timberlake, who began his career as a child performer on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club in the early 1990s, rose to fame as a member of the boy band *NSync before launching a solo career in 2002. He went on to become one of the best-selling pop artists of the 2000s.
Despite his recent health challenges, Timberlake’s fans remain hopeful about his future in music. As one admirer wrote: “Thank you for showing up for us time and time again. Now it’s time we show up for you.”
