The singer announced today on social media that the disease had made touring “relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically”.
Justin Timberlake announced on social media today that he’s been suffering from Lyme disease. The serious illness has seen a rise in cases in the US in recent years.
In an Instagram post, pop singer and actor wrote: “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 further added: “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. When I first got the diagnosis, I was shocked for sure. But, at least I could understand why I would be on stage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness.”
Clips of Timberlake’s live performances have gone viral this week, with many comments noting the singer’s reliance on the backing track.
“Where is the audience performing next?” one user joked, referring to Timberlake asking the crowd to sing his song ‘Can’t Stop The Feeling’.
In Timberlake’s post, he shared that feelings of fatigue and sickness were hitting him hard: “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.”
He added, “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 about my struggles so that they aren’t misinterpreted.”
The former NSync member has finished his world tour, which had been ongoing for the last two years.
MORE IN Music
