Justin Timberlake Reveals Lyme Disease Diagnosis After Tour Struggles

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Justin Timberlake has revealed he was battling Lyme disease during his recently concluded Forget Tomorrow tour, a condition he described as “debilitating, both mentally and physically.”

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Timberlake, 44, reflected on the whirlwind of the past two years on the road. “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,” he wrote.

The Grammy-winning artist shared that his diagnosis explained the nerve pain, fatigue, and illness he experienced while on stage. “I was faced with a personal decision,” he said. “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’s tour, which began in April 2024, was at times overshadowed by public criticism, including a cancelled Ohio show due to illness and viral videos that sparked accusations of lackluster performances. His admission now sheds light on the physical toll behind those moments.

“I now have so many special moments with all of you that I will never forget,” he wrote. “I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself. But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted.”

Timberlake also expressed hope that sharing his story might help others facing similar challenges: “Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected.”

Lyme disease, often spread by ticks, has also affected several public figures, including Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber, and Shania Twain. Timberlake joins a growing list of artists raising awareness about the illness and its long-term effects.