Justin Timberlake Shares He Was Battling Lyme Disease During His World Tour

By The Hyperhive

4 August 2025

After finishing a long world tour, Justin Timberlake opened up about a condition that made performing a huge challenge.

What was this hidden struggle? Let’s dive into the story.

Justin Timberlake Diagnosed With Lyme Disease

On July 31, 2025, Justin Timberlake posted on Instagram about his diagnosis with Lyme disease, a bacterial infection caused by tick bites. He described it as “relentlessly debilitating,” causing severe nerve pain, extreme fatigue, and flu-like symptoms.

Despite these challenges, he completed his two-year Forget Tomorrow World Tour, which ended in Turkey. Timberlake said he was shocked by the diagnosis but relieved to understand why he felt so unwell on stage.

He chose to keep performing because the joy of connecting with fans outweighed his physical struggles. His openness aims to raise awareness about this often-misunderstood illness.

What Is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi, spread through bites from blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks. Early symptoms include fever, fatigue, headache, and a bull’s-eye rash, though not everyone gets the rash.

If untreated, it can lead to serious issues like joint pain, heart problems, and nerve damage. Most cases are treated with antibiotics for 10 to 14 days, and early treatment usually leads to full recovery.

However, some people, like Timberlake, experience lingering symptoms, known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS). This condition can cause ongoing fatigue, aches, and memory problems. About 476,000 Americans are treated for Lyme disease each year, and it’s becoming more common in places like New York and Pennsylvania.

Other Celebrities Facing Lyme Disease

Timberlake isn’t alone in his battle. Other stars like Justin Bieber, Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, and Bella Hadid have shared their Lyme disease diagnoses. Bieber revealed in 2020 that the disease affected his skin, brain, and energy, while Lavigne was bedridden for months, feeling like she couldn’t breathe or move.

These celebrities are helping to break the stigma around Lyme disease by talking openly about their struggles. Their stories show how varied and challenging the symptoms can be, often making it hard to diagnose early. By sharing his experience, Timberlake hopes to support others and encourage empathy for those with invisible illnesses.

Justin Timberlake’s decision to share his health journey is a reminder that even stars face tough challenges. His courage to perform through pain and speak out afterward shines a light on Lyme disease, helping others feel less alone.