Justin Timberlake has opened up about his recent health struggles, revealing in an emotional Instagram post that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease. The announcement came shortly after the conclusion of his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, which spanned two years and ended in late July.
In a heartfelt message shared on July 31, Timberlake reflected on the highs and lows of the tour, describing it as “the most fun, emotional, gratifying, physically demanding, and, at times, grueling experience.” The 44-year-old singer acknowledged that his performances may have appeared lackluster at times, which led some fans to speculate about his energy levels onstage.
Timberlake explained that behind the scenes, he had been quietly dealing with serious health issues. “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,” he 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.”
Lyme disease, caused by bacteria transmitted through tick bites, can lead to severe fatigue, nerve pain, joint problems, and neurological issues if untreated. Timberlake said he initially considered canceling his tour but ultimately chose to push through because of his passion for performing.
His admission followed online criticism from concertgoers who noticed Timberlake holding the microphone out to the crowd and minimizing his usual dance routines. One TikTok user jokingly captioned their video, “Go girl, give us nothing.”
@stereogum @Justin Timberlake “performed” in Transylvania for the first time and he sucked [📹: andreeamadlina.ene, nsyncreunion, pau.leahu, electriccastle, adricindrea] #JustinTimberlake #concert #Transylvania #Romania #ElectricCastle
♬ original sound - stereogum
In the same post, Timberlake also addressed his hesitance to speak publicly about his diagnosis. “I was raised to keep something like this to yourself,” he wrote. “But I’m trying to be more transparent so that my struggles aren’t misinterpreted.”
Timberlake’s revelation has also raised questions about the future of a rumored *NSYNC 30th anniversary reunion tour, which now appears uncertain.
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