Justin Timberlake Reveals Lyme Disease Diagnosis: "It’s Been Relentlessly Debilitating"

August 1, 2025 – New York — Grammy-winning pop icon Justin Timberlake has publicly revealed that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease, marking a rare moment of vulnerability for the superstar as he wraps up his Forget Tomorrow World Tour.

In a heartfelt Instagram post shared on Thursday, Timberlake opened up about his private health battle, saying he’s been “battling some health issues” behind the scenes — including the recent diagnosis of Lyme disease, a bacterial infection caused by tick bites.

“Living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically,” Timberlake wrote. “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.”

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is the most common vector-borne illness in the United States. It's caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick (commonly known as the deer tick).

Dr. Leana Wen, emergency physician and public health professor, told CNN that Lyme disease presents in three stages, often beginning with flu-like symptoms and potentially progressing to serious complications like facial paralysis, neurological issues, arthritis, cardiac symptoms, and chronic fatigue if not treated promptly.

Timberlake: “I’m Glad I Kept Going”

Despite his diagnosis, the Mirrors and SexyBack hitmaker decided to complete his global tour, performing his final show on Wednesday night in Istanbul.

“I was faced with the decision to stop touring or to keep going,” Timberlake shared. “The joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I’m so glad I kept going.”

Reflecting on his journey, Timberlake expressed uncertainty about his future in live performance, but gratitude for what he has been able to accomplish.

“There really is no way to put into words the feeling of being on a stage and getting to share the experience of live music with all of you. It’s a vibration of frequency that is unmatched. I honestly don’t know what my future is onstage, but I’ll always cherish this run.”

Why Timberlake Is Speaking Out Now

Known for being fiercely private, Timberlake admitted that he initially hesitated to speak publicly about his health, but ultimately decided to share his story in hopes of raising awareness and supporting others battling the same condition.

“I’m trying to be more transparent about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted,” he said. “I’d like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too.”

“Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected,” Timberlake added.

Lyme Disease and Celebrities: A Growing List

Timberlake now joins a growing list of high-profile celebrities — including Avril Lavigne, Shania Twain, Bella Hadid, and Yolanda Hadid — who have gone public with their battles against Lyme disease, helping bring greater visibility to a condition that is often misunderstood or misdiagnosed.

As Justin Timberlake steps into a new phase of health and healing, fans and followers are sending messages of support and gratitude for his honesty and resilience.