Justin Timberlake has revealed he has been battling Lyme disease during his recent world tour, explaining how the condition has caused “relentlessly debilitating” symptoms that affected his performances.
The pop singer wrapped up The Forget Tomorrow World Tour on July 30 and took to Instagram to open up about the health struggles he has faced behind the scenes.
“This has been the most fun, emotional, gratifying, physically demanding, and, at times, grueling experience,” the 44-year-old said of the tour, adding, “I could not have done it without my family, friends, The TN Kids, and all of YOUR support.”
The dad-of-two shared that over the past couple of years he has been quietly coping with Lyme disease. “Among other things, 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,” he wrote.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected black-legged tick. Typically found in grassy or wooded areas, Lyme disease is very treatable if caught early but can cause severe joint pain or swelling, numbness, memory problems, and facial palsy, and even heart palpitations or dizziness.
The singer admitted that the diagnosis came as a shock. “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.”
The illness forced the Sexy Back singer to make a tough decision about continuing the tour. “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 reflected.
He continued: “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. I was reluctant to talk about this because I was always raised to keep something like this to yourself. But I am trying to be more transparent abotu my struggles so they aren’t misinterpretated.
Throughout the tour the star faced harsh criticism from some fans who accused him of appearing “lazy” and “tired” on stage, and questioned his vocal effort.
Addressing the backlash in his post, he acknowledged the challenges he faced while performing and highlighting the unseen toll his health condition took on him.
Taking the opportunity to thank his support system, he added: “I could not have done it without my family, friends, The TN Kids, and all of YOUR support.”
Finally, thanking his wife Jessica Biel and their two sons, he added: “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…”