Justin Timberlake has opened up about his diagnosis of Lyme disease after revealing he'd been "battling some health issues".
On Thursday (July 31), the 44-year-old music icon revealed that he’s been diagnosed with Lyme disease, joining a growing list of high-profile stars - including Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber, and Alec Baldwin - who have spoken publicly about their experience with the illness.
“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 shared in a candid Instagram post.
The 'SexyBack' singer said the condition has been “relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.”
He explained: “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.”
Timberlake’s announcement comes after more than a year on the road with his Forget Tomorrow world tour, which began in April 2024, shortly after his latest album Everything I Thought It Was.
As the tour progressed, fans noted signs of exhaustion and questioned his performance quality online.
The 'Mirrors' superstar addressed the speculation directly: “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.
“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 continued. “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.”
The tour’s success has been undeniable as Timberlake ranked 10th in Billboard’s midyear Boxscore report, grossing $73.2 million across 41 shows as of late May.
Experts say the disease, while relatively rare, can be serious. “Lyme disease is an infection caused by a group of bacteria transmitted through an infected tick, giving you a specific set of symptoms,” explained Dr Sanjay Mehta, GP at the London General Practice.
Only infected ticks can transmit the disease, and it’s typically contracted in wooded or grassy areas, The Independent reported.
The illness can present in a variety of ways, from flu-like symptoms and a rash to more severe nerve, joint, and neurological issues if left untreated.
Dr Mehta noted: “Those patients tend to get three stages of symptoms… long-term joint problems and neurological symptoms” can develop in a small number of cases.
In the US, experts have warned of an uptick in tick populations due to warming temperatures. May and June 2025 saw the highest number of ER visits for tick bites during those months since 2019, according to CDC data.
Timberlake, who began his career on The All-New Mickey Mouse Club and rose to fame with *NSync before launching a solo career, said he hopes his experience will help others. “I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease,” he said.
Fans have responded with overwhelming support. “Well, this explains a couple of things... the only thing we're sure of is that you have incredible talent and professionalism," wrote one.
"Every show was impactful, full of magic, and for that we are grateful. We will always support your every step, because we love you and know all the sacrifice that a tour entails. It's time for a break. We love you, JT. We hope you come back to our Chile when you return,” they added.
Another shared: “As someone who has battled Lyme disease for 23 yrs I want to say thank you for sharing your story & raising awareness & I am sending all the love & prayers for your healing.”