Singer Justin Timberlake Reveals ‘Debilitating’ Lyme Disease Diagnosis

The Grammy-winning singer says he is trying to be more transparent about his health issues that led to cancelled shows

Justin Timberlake and his wife, Jessica Biel, arrive for the Los Angeles FYC Premiere Event for Hulu's "Candy" in Los Angeles on May 9, 2022. Michael Tran/AFP via Getty Images

Singer Justin Timberlake revealed he is battling some “debilitating” health issues, including Lyme disease, as he wrapped up his 15-month-long Forget Tomorrow World Tour.

Timberlake, 44, took to Instagram on July 31 to give fans an insight into his health struggles.

“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,” he wrote.

“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.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Lyme disease is a tick-borne illness caused by the Borrelia bacteria.

It is transmitted through the bite of black-legged ticks, with typical symptoms including headache, fever, fatigue, and visible skin rashes.

The diagnosis, and “fleeting” amount of stress his body was feeling, left Timberlake questioning whether he should continue touring.

“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 said.

“I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted.”

The Grammy-winning singer, who has been on tour since April 2024, has had to postpone or cancel a number of shows due to health issues.

On Dec. 2, 2024, Timberlake canceled his concert in Oklahoma City due to a back injury he sustained during a previous performance.

Two months earlier, he hurt his ankle, which resulted in a show being postponed in Newark, New Jersey.

Timberlake was also diagnosed with bronchitis and laryngitis in October 2024, leading to six shows—Chicago, Grand Rapids, Detroit, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and Columbus—being rescheduled to February 2025, according to People.com.

The NSYNC alum was reluctant to open up with his recent post; however, after some self-reflection, he hopes to spread awareness and offer assistance to others with similar diagnoses.

“Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected,” he wrote. “I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too.”