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Justin Timberlake has disclosed his diagnosis of Lyme disease.
The 44-year-old entertainer revealed he was “shocked” by the diagnosis, which he says explains instances of “massive nerve pain on stage” and periods of “crazy fatigue or sickness.”
The “Cry Me A River” singer shared the health update on Instagram following the conclusion of his “Forget Tomorrow” world tour.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks. While most patients respond well to treatment, some may experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, aches, and diminished energy levels for an extended period.
Timberlake acknowledged the possibility of halting his tour prematurely but ultimately decided to persevere.
In a statement posted on Instagram on Thursday, he wrote: “As many of you know, I’m a pretty private person. But as I’m reflecting on the tour and festival tour – I want to tell you a little bit about what’s going on with me.”
“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.”
“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.”
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), early treatment with antibiotics typically leads to a swift and complete recovery.
The CDC notes that while most patients treated in later stages respond well to antibiotics, some may experience long-term damage to the nervous system or joints.
Justin Bieber, Shania Twain, and Avril Lavigne are among other prominent musicians who have publicly shared their experiences with Lyme disease.
Timberlake affirmed that “the joy that performing brings” outweighed the physical strain, adding he was “glad I kept going.”
His two-year world tour, which commenced in April 2024, wrapped up in Turkey on Wednesday.
“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,” he stated, emphasizing his desire for “more transparency” regarding his struggles to avoid “misinterpretations.”
The artist had previously faced criticism from some fans on social media regarding perceived underwhelming performances.
Timberlake’s diagnosis follows a period marked by personal challenges.
In September 2024, he entered a guilty plea for driving while impaired as part of an agreement to resolve his drink-driving case.
“This is a mistake I have made, but I hope whoever is watching and listening right now can learn from this. I know I certainly have,” he commented at the time.
The singer also encountered backlash following revelations about his past relationship with Britney Spears in her memoir and a related documentary about Spears.
Timberlake, formerly the frontman of the boy band NSYNC, has received 10 Grammy Awards as a solo artist and is recognized as one of the best-selling recording artists of all time.
He is married to actress Jessica Biel.
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