Following the conclusion of his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, Justin Timberlake disclosed that he had been quietly battling Lyme disease during the entire run.
In an Instagram post on July 31, the singer shared images from his tour and wrote, “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.”
He then revealed, “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.”
Timberlake explained, “If you’ve experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you’re aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.” He added, “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. 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.”
