Lyme disease explained: Justin Timberlake opens up on diagnosis, recovery

Justin Timberlake has disclosed that he’s been diagnosed with Lyme disease—a bacterial infection transmitted through tick bites—which he called “relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically.”

The 44-year-old pop star made the revelation on Instagram after wrapping up his Forget Tomorrow world tour.

“I don’t say this so you feel bad for me,” Timberlake wrote, “but to shed some light on what I’ve been up against behind the scenes.”

Performing through pain

Timberlake said the diagnosis helped explain months of nerve pain, severe fatigue, and sickness during his tour.

“When I first got the diagnosis, I was shocked. But at least I could understand why I’d be onstage in a massive amount of pain.”

Several shows were postponed or cancelled due to recurring bronchitis, flu, and laryngitis. Six US dates were moved to early 2025, and the tour’s final show was called off entirely.

Highs and hurdles on tour

Despite his health struggles, Timberlake described the experience as “the most fun, emotional, gratifying, physically demanding, and at times, gruelling” of his career.

According to Billboard, the tour grossed over $73 million across 41 shows, making him one of the top 10 touring artists of 2024.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium, spread by infected blacklegged (deer) ticks.

Common symptoms:

• Fever, chills, body aches

• Fatigue and joint pain

• Brain fog and nerve pain

• Red circular rash (may not appear in all cases)

If untreated, the infection can spread to the heart, joints and nervous system, leading to long-term complications.

Timberlake joins growing list of celebrity cases

Timberlake isn’t alone—Avril Lavigne, Justin Bieber, and Shania Twain have also publicly battled Lyme disease.

Cases are rising in the US, especially in the Northeast and Midwest. In May–June 2025, CDC data showed the highest number of ER visits for tick bites since 2019.

Treatment and long-term impact

Lyme disease is typically treated with a 10–14-day course of antibiotics. Most people recover fully when treated early, but 5–15% may develop Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS)—with lingering symptoms like fatigue and joint pain.

Timberlake’s message to fans

The singer ended his post by thanking his wife, Jessica Biel, and their sons, Silas and Phin:

“Nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I’m on my way.”

Protect yourself from Lyme: Tick prevention tips

• Wear long sleeves and trousers in grassy/wooded areas

• Use repellents with DEET or permethrin

• Shower and check for ticks after outdoor activities

• Remove ticks promptly with tweezers—don’t squeeze

• See a doctor if you develop rash, fever or body aches