Justin Timberlake has revealed that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease, sharing the news in a candid statement following the conclusion of his massive “Forget Tomorrow World Tour.” The announcement sheds light on the private health struggles the singer was facing, particularly after some fans had recently expressed concern over his seemingly sluggish and low energy performances during the international leg of the tour.
In a pair of Instagram Stories, Timberlake confirmed that his on stage appearance was indeed affected by the nerve damage and fatigue associated with the disease. He explained his motivation for sharing the deeply personal news. “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. “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.”
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The singer then detailed the shock of his diagnosis and the difficult choice he faced about continuing the tour. He explained that understanding the source of his pain ultimately helped him make the decision to push forward for the love of performing. “When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure,” he continued. “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. 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.”
Timberlake concluded his message by acknowledging his initial reluctance to speak publicly, citing a desire to be more transparent in the hopes of helping others. “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. 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.”
The singer successfully wrapped his “Forget Tomorrow World Tour” in Istanbul on July 30. The global trek, staged in support of his sixth studio album “Everything I Thought It Was,” ran for more than a year and saw him perform across the United States, Europe, Mexico, and South America.
