August 1, 2025 | 10:02 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Justin Timberlake has revealed that he is battling Lyme disease and opened up about the physical and mental challenges it brings.
In an Instagram post on Thursday, July 31, 2025, the 44-year-old singer shared that the tick-borne illness has significantly weakened him.
“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,” Timberlake wrote.
He explained that he was initially shocked by the diagnosis, but it helped explain the intense nerve pain he experienced while performing on stage during his recently concluded two-year tour.
"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."
Causes of Lyme Disease
Lyme disease stems from an infection by Borrelia bacteria, which is most commonly spread to humans through bites from infected ticks. These ticks are found in various parts of the United States, as well as in regions of Europe and southern to southeastern Canada.
The likelihood of infection is higher in areas with dense grass, forests, or brush where ticks are prevalent.
Symptoms and Treatment
Initial symptoms may include fatigue, headaches, fever, chills, muscle and joint aches, stiffness, and swollen lymph nodes. These symptoms can appear gradually and often overlap.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment are crucial to prevent more serious health issues.
Although Timberlake didn’t reveal when he was officially diagnosed, he said the illness made him consider quitting his tour. However, he ultimately chose to continue.
“ 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 wrote.
His post comes after fans criticized his recent live performances, where videos showed him pausing frequently or relying on the audience to sing along.
Timberlake admitted he was hesitant to share his diagnosis, but said he wanted to be more open about his struggles to avoid being misunderstood.
He joins a list of other public figures who have recently spoken out about Lyme disease. In 2023, model Bella Hadid revealed her recovery from the illness, while Justin Bieber disclosed his diagnosis in 2020.
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