Singer Justin Timberlake has disclosed that he has been diagnosed with Lyme disease.
Justin Timberlake reveals Lyme disease diagnosis
The announcement came shortly after he completed the final leg of his “Forget Tomorrow” world tour in Turkey on Tuesday, 30 July 2025.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Lyme disease is an infection caused by Borrelia bacteria, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks.
These ticks are commonly found in grassy or wooded areas, especially in the upper Midwest and northeastern regions of the United States, and parts of Europe and Canada.
Timberlake shared details of his condition in a statement posted to Instagram.
“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.
He described the experience as “relentlessly debilitating” on both a physical and mental level.
Despite his diagnosis, Timberlake did not cancel any performances during his tour.
He expressed gratitude to his team, fans, and family for their support, adding that continuing to perform had helped him mentally.
Understanding Lyme disease
Lyme disease symptoms usually appear in stages. In the early stage (within 3 to 30 days of a tick bite), individuals may experience fever, fatigue, headaches, muscle pain, joint stiffness, and a skin rash that often looks like a bull’s-eye.
This is called early localised disease.
If not treated, the illness can progress to the second stage, known as early disseminated disease. Symptoms may then include multiple rashes, facial paralysis, irregular heartbeat, and pain or numbness in limbs.
In the third stage, known as late disseminated disease, individuals may develop arthritis, especially in the knees. Some may also suffer from neurological issues or skin conditions.
The Mayo Clinic advises that many people who contract Lyme disease may not recall being bitten by a tick. Because the symptoms can resemble other illnesses, anyone experiencing signs associated with Lyme disease should consult a healthcare provider, especially if they have spent time in high-risk outdoor areas.
Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic treatment can improve recovery outcomes significantly.