Pop superstar **Justin Timberlake** has opened up about recently receiving a diagnosis of **Lyme disease**, calling the condition “relentlessly debilitating” both mentally and physically—and offering a long-awaited explanation for his recent low-energy performances during his *Forget Tomorrow World Tour* Page Six report on the diagnosis and corroborated by **Reuters**’ coverage of his statement international reaction.
Announcing the diagnosis in a candid Instagram message concluding his tour on **July 30**, 44-year-old Timberlake revealed symptoms of **nerve pain**, extreme **fatigue**, and recurring sickness—even while performing live onstage. He wrote that the diagnosis clarified why he had sometimes felt “overwhelmed or unwell” during shows, justifying his decision to continue touring based on his love of performing and connection with fans as described in the reporting.
Timberlake said he was “shocked” by the diagnosis but relieved it provided answers. Faced with a difficult decision, he chose to **see the tour through**, believing the joy he received from performing outweighed the physical strain. “I’m so glad I kept going,” he stated, adding he hoped greater **transparency** would prevent fans and critics from misinterpreting his energy levels onstage E! News coverage of his post-tour reflection and **ABC News** detailed timeline from Good Morning America.
“I don’t say this so you feel bad for me—but to share what I’ve been up against behind the scenes.”
Timberlake also noted that Lyme disease is a **tick-borne bacterial infection** capable of causing flu-like symptoms, severe neurological pain, and joint inflammation. His hope in sharing the news was not sympathy, but increased **empathy and connection**, particularly for fans living with chronic illnesses as he explained in the message.
The admission comes after growing public criticism from fans who labeled his concert performances as lethargic or lip-synced—accusations that Timberlake now clarifies were consequences of untreated illness. One viral clip even showed him gesturing rather than singing for extended periods, sparking intense online commentary as detailed by Reuters and mentioned by **The Sun** in concert critiques.
Fans on Reddit responded with overwhelming support. In a thread on r/Music, one user recounted: > “He literally took a deer tick into the hospital in a box. I feel for that kind of nerve pain.” The response shows how many now relate to chronic illness struggles with newfound compassion as shared by fans online.
Virtual messages of love poured in fast. His wife, **Jessica Biel**, reshared his post on Instagram Story, and numerous celebrities offered public support. Timberlake concluded his message with heartfelt thanks to fans, referring to their signs, messages, and energy as humbling and unforgettable moments Page Six framing his gratitude.
This diagnosis places Timberlake among other public figures living with Lyme disease—such as **Justin Bieber**, **Avril Lavigne**, and **Yolanda Hadid**—reinforcing the growing conversation around the illness and its long-term effects on physical and mental health.
As he enters recovery, Timberlake emphasized that his journey is far from over—but sharing it is meant to help others feel less alone. In his words: > “I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too. Sharing this so we can all be more connected.” For fans, that message may be his most powerful encore yet.
