Justin Timberlake, 44, flooded with support as he announces ‘relentlessly debilitating’ health diagnosis: ‘I was shocked’
Pop star Justin Timberlake has disclosed that he has been battling Lyme disease, making the announcement through social media on Thursday following the conclusion of his Forget Tomorrow World Tour in Turkey.
The 44-year-old musician described the tick-borne illness as “relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically” in a lengthy Instagram post that marked a rare moment of personal revelation from the typically private performer.
“Among other things, 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,” Timberlake wrote.
The former NSYNC member’s tour, which began in April 2024 and grossed $73.2 million across 41 shows by late May, had drawn criticism from some attendees who noted what appeared to be signs of exhaustion during performances.
The singer revealed that he experienced severe nerve pain and extreme exhaustion whilst performing, yet chose to persist with his tour schedule despite the physical challenges.
“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,” he explained in his post.
Faced with a difficult choice, Timberlake opted to continue performing rather than cancel the tour.
“I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going,” he wrote.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Vanessa Feltz admits she won’t fear cancel culture as she reveals why she’s proud to be British – EXCLUSIVELinda Robson shares true feelings among Loose Women cast after ITV unveils drastic daytime cuts – EXCLUSIVEThe Traitors star unleashes brilliant anti-woke rant: ‘We need REAL journalists – that’s why I LOVE GB News!’ – EXCLUSIVE
The musician acknowledged his reluctance to discuss his health publicly, stating he was “raised to keep something like this to yourself” but wanted transparency to prevent misinterpretation of his struggles.
His wife, actress Jessica Biel, demonstrated her support by sharing his announcement on her Instagram Story alongside a photograph of their son embracing Timberlake, accompanied by heart emojis.
Fans responded with an outpouring of encouragement. “You are so loved, and we’ll be here supporting whatever you decide to do next,” one supporter commented, whilst another wrote: “Justin you are so appreciated. Thank you for showing up for us time and time again.”
Lyme disease, transmitted through infected tick bites, can cause fever, fatigue, joint pain and neurological problems.
The condition affects approximately 476,000 Americans annually, according to health authorities.
Other prominent musicians including Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber and Shania Twain have previously spoken about their battles with the illness, with Twain revealing it affected her singing voice.
Reflecting on his three-decade career in entertainment, Timberlake expressed uncertainty about his future as a performer. “I honestly don’t know what my future is onstage, but I’ll always cherish this run! And all of them before! It’s been the stuff of legend for me,” he wrote.
The Grammy-winning artist emphasised his desire to assist others facing similar health challenges. “I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too,” he stated, hoping his transparency would foster greater understanding and connection.
Throughout the tour, Timberlake had cancelled or postponed multiple performances citing various health issues including bronchitis, laryngitis and flu. His bandmate Chris Kirkpatrick praised his resilience, calling his ability to perform whilst battling Lyme disease “superhero status.”