Justin Timberlake has been diagnosed with Lyme disease. The former NSYNC star announced the health update on Instagram on Thursday (July 31). Timberlake shared the news in a post commemorating his’ Forget Tomorrow’ tour, which wrapped in Turkey the day before, per the Associated Press.
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Justin Timberlake Opens Up About Lyme Disease Diagnosis
In his Instagram reveal, Justin Timberlake said the Lyme disease “can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.” The ‘SexyBack’ singer, who described himself as a private person, said he considered ending the tour when doctors diagnosed him. However, he said he “decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”
The 10-time Grammy winner ended the post thanking his wife, Jessica Biel, and their two sons, Silas and Phin. He said, “Nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I’m on my way.”
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What To Know About Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is transmitted by Ixodes ticks, also known as deer ticks. It can cause flu-like conditions, neurological problems, joint pain, and other symptoms. The first sign is often—but not always—a red, round bulls-eye rash. In most cases, Lyme disease is successfully treated with antibiotics. Justin did not reveal how he was infected.
Additionally, exactly how often Lyme disease strikes is unclear. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cites insurance records suggesting 476,000 people are treated for Lyme disease in the U.S. each year. Early antibiotic treatment is crucial, but it can be hard for people to tell if ticks bit them. Some are as small as a pin. Untreated Lyme disease can cause severe arthritis and damage the heart and nervous system. Some people have lingering symptoms even after treatment.
What’s Next For JT After Shaky Tour?
Regarding performing, Justin Timberlake didn’t clarify when he’ll be back on stage. He openly said that he doesn’t know what his future holds, but cherishes his recent run, “and all of them before.” He wrote, “It’s been the stuff of legend for me.”
Though memorable for him, the tour wasn’t always smooth for fans. Justin Timberlake canceled and postponed multiple shows throughout the tour, citing health issues, including bronchitis and laryngitis. Six of his U.S. shows were delayed from October and November to February. Timberlake ultimately canceled the last show of the U.S. leg of the tour in Ohio due to the flu in February.
Aside from health issues, Justin Timberlake also faced legal troubles last year. He pleaded guilty to driving while impaired in New York’s Hamptons in 2024. As part of his plea deal, the singer gave a public safety announcement in September, urging drivers not to get behind the wheel after drinking.
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Associated Press writer Itzel Luna contributed to this report via AP Newsroom.
