NEED TO KNOW
Justin Timberlake has been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
He shared the news with fans in his Instagram Stories and in his feed on Thursday, July 31. “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,” the “SexyBack” singer wrote. “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.”
The announcement comes as the musician, 44, ends his two-year Forget Tomorrow World Tour, during which he has been criticized for lackluster performances towards the end.
In his post, he said he was “shocked for sure” to receive his diagnosis. “But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness.”
Justin Timberlake/Instagram
Transmitted from the bite of an infected tick, Lyme disease can, at first, cause flu-like symptoms like headaches, joint pain, fatigue, or a fever, per the Cleveland Clinic. It’s often diagnosed by a rash resembling a bullseye around on the tick bite. Later symptoms can include facial paralysis, brain fog, numbness, swollen joints, and nerve damage.
The *NSYNC alum said he struggled with the decision to continue touring despite health setbacks, but shared he decided to “keep going and figure it out.” As he explained, “the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”
Earlier in the tour, Timberlake had to cancel or postpone various shows due to an ongoing back injury, bronchitis and laryngitis, and an ankle injury.
Justin Timberlake/Instagram
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
“I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself,” Timberlake continued. “But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted. Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected. I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too.”
He concluded with a photo of him hugging his son Silas — shot from behind — and thanked his wife Jessica Biel and kids for their support in his post. “To Jess, Silas, and Phin… nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I’m on my way.”
*NSYNC bandmate Chris Kirkpatrick was quick to support his friend, sharing a group photo and writing, “I’ve always known my little bro was tough — but this tour showed me a whole new level of strength. Watching him battle Lyme disease day in and day out, while still getting on that stage night after night, was something I’ll never forget. The long days, the travel, the exhaustion — and yet, he never gave up. No complaints, no excuses — just heart, grit, and pure determination. That kind of resilience is rare.”
He continued, “I couldn’t be more proud to call him my friend. Tour life is already a grind, but doing it while fighting Lyme disease? That’s superhero status. Here’s to strength, perseverance, and one hell of a tour. Love you little bro!”
