On July 31, pop singer Justin Timberlake took to social media to confirm a diagnosis. In an Instagram post memorializing the end of his year-long Forget Tomorrow tour, Timberlake opened up to fans about the health struggles he’d recently experienced on the road.
“As many of you know, I’m a pretty private person. But as I’m reflecting on the tour and festival tour — I want to tell you a little bit about what’s going on with me. Among other things, I’ve been battling some health issues, and was diagnosed with Lyme disease…”
Timberlake goes on to explain that he isn’t seeking pity, but is aiming to share something personal and raise awareness instead: “If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you’re aware: Living with [Lyme disease] can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.”
“When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure,” he continues. “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.”
“I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself,” Timberlake wrote. “But I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted.”
These remarks follow online criticism from concertgoers who accused the singer of delivering a lackluster performance. A recent show in Romania went viral when fans criticized Timberlake for a late arrival followed by low energy and minimal singing.
Timberlake finished his statement with a message to Jessica Biel, his wife of 12 years, and their two sons: “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.”
