- Justin Timberlake revealed a Lyme disease diagnosis dated July 31, 2025, to explain performance challenges.
- He endured nerve pain, extreme fatigue, and sickness while completing his Forget Tomorrow Tour.
- Despite criticism, he chose to continue performing, driven by his love for live shows.
- Now, he’s committed to being more transparent about his health so struggles aren’t misunderstood.
- His future onstage remains open‑ended as he prioritizes recovery and reflection.
In an Instagram story on July 31, 2025, Justin Timberlake publicly revealed that he had been diagnosed with Lyme disease during his Forget Tomorrow World Tour. He described being “shocked for sure” by the diagnosis, but noted that finally understanding the root cause of his physical struggles—especially the massive amount of nerve pain—was a relief. The 44‑year‑old singer emphasized that he shared the news not for sympathy, but “to shed some light on what I’ve been up against behind the scenes”.
The Singer Said the Disease Caused a “Massive Amount of Nerve Pain”
Timberlake called living with Lyme disease “relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically”. He revealed that fatigue, sickness, and acute nerve pain left him questioning whether he could perform. These symptoms, he said, often made him dependent on fans singing along when he couldn’t find his own vocal energy.
The Revelation Comes Amid Criticism of His Tour Energy
As Timberlake wrapped up his 15‑month Forget Tomorrow World Tour, criticism mounted over what some fans described as lackluster performances—videos circulated showing him taking longer breaks on stage and prompting the crowd to carry the vocals. His disclosure now provides context: he was performing through fatigue, nerve pain, and multiple illnesses that included bronchitis, flu, laryngitis, and a back injury.
Timberlake Said He Decided to Continue Touring Despite “Crazy Fatigue” and “Sickness”
Facing the choice to stop or push forward, he opted to keep going, because performing gives him joy unmatchable by the physical stress he felt.
“I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going,” he wrote.
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He Decided He Needed to Be More Transparent So His Struggles “Aren’t Misinterpreted”
Having been raised to keep personal health matters private, Timberlake admitted he was reluctant to go public. But sharing the truth felt necessary: “I am trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted,” he wrote. He also expressed hope that being open might help others facing similar issues feel seen and supported.
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Looking Ahead: What This Means for His On‑Stage Future
While he closed the tour on July 30, 2025, Timberlake also expressed uncertainty over what’s next: “Honestly, I don’t know what my future is onstage but I’ll always cherish this run… It’s been the stuff of legend for me.”. Though rumors are swirling that he may take an extended break—or even retire from touring—insiders stress that his decision will depend on his health and emotional readiness.
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