Justin Timberlake reveals Lyme disease diagnosis: “Relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically”

Justin Timberlake has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease.

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The ‘What Goes Around… Comes Around’ singer shared the news on his Instagram account yesterday (July 31) while reflecting on the upcoming end of his ‘Forget Tomorrow’ world tour.

Throughout the course of the tour – which kicked off in April last year – Timberlake has faced numerous setbacks, including being criticised for lacklustre performances, the postponement and cancellation of several shows over illness and his infamous arrest last year for driving under the influence.

Timberlake shared on Instagram: “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. When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure. 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.”

He went on to share that he decided to keep on performing and figuring out how to deal with his illness instead of to quit touring – a decision he’s “so glad” he made.

“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. 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.”

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Following Justin’s reveal, his *NSYNC bandmate Chris Kirkpatrick took to social media to share a heartwarming message for Timberlake: “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. 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.”

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According to the Cleveland Clinic, Lyme disease is caused by bacteria that’s transmitted to humans after being bit by infected ticks. Lyme disease can be treated, but may also include long-term symptoms.

Last October, the singer postponed six North American shows after being diagnosed with bronchitis and laryngitis, just weeks after he called off another show in Newark just hours before stage time due to “an injury that is preventing me from performing”. In December, he then cancelled a show in Oklahoma City after sustaining a back injury.

Last September, the singer pleaded guilty to driving while impaired, and called for fans to think again if they considered driving under the influence of alcohol. The judge sentenced the singer to a $500 (£380) fine with a $260 (£198) surcharge, and 25 hours of community service at a non-profit of his choice.

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