Justin Timberlake Reveals Lyme Disease Diagnosis: ‘It Can Be Relentlessly Debilitating’

Justin Timberlake has opened up about a major health challenge: he’s been diagnosed with Lyme disease.

The singer, 44, shared the news on his Instagram Stories and feed on Thursday, July 31. “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 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.”

His announcement follows the conclusion of his two-year Forget Tomorrow World Tour, during which some fans expressed disappointment with his later performances.

Timberlake said he was “shocked for sure” to get the diagnosis. “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.”

Lyme disease, which is spread through the bite of an infected tick, can initially cause symptoms like headaches, joint pain, fatigue, or fever, according to the Cleveland Clinic. One telltale sign is a rash shaped like a bullseye around the bite area. If left untreated, the condition can lead to more serious issues such as facial paralysis, brain fog, swollen joints, numbness, and nerve damage.

Despite the diagnosis, the *NSYNC alum said he chose to push forward with the tour. “The joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling,” he said. “I’m so glad I kept going.”

Earlier on the tour, Timberlake had postponed or canceled several shows due to a range of issues, including a back injury, bronchitis, laryngitis, and a sprained ankle.

“I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself,” Timberlake continued. “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.”

He ended his message with a heartfelt tribute to his family, including a photo of himself hugging his son Silas. “To Jess, Silas, and Phin… nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I’m on my way.”

His *NSYNC bandmate Chris Kirkpatrick responded with public support, sharing a group photo with Lance Bass and JC Chasez and writing, “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.”

Kirkpatrick added, “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. Here’s to strength, perseverance, and one hell of a tour. Love you little bro!”