Though widely known as an acclaimed singer and performer, it’s important to note that Justin Timberlake is a tremendous marketer. He compassionately recounted the closing of his two-year long Forget Tomorrow World Tour. In this raw interview, he opened up about his struggles with chronic Lyme disease. This condition developed soon after he exhibited reactions from a tick kein.
Timberlake’s symptoms started to show only three days after he was bitten by a tick. He described feeling feverish, as well as having severe headache and crushing fatigue. Timberlake didn’t want to share his diagnosis at first. In the end, he felt like sharing his experience would help promote transparency with his fans.
When I received the diagnosis initially I was in disbelief, Timberlake said of course. “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.” This acknowledgment came as Timberlake faced a critical decision: to continue touring or to prioritize his health. Not surprisingly, he chose the latter, saying that after all the fun of being on stage completely trumped all the health issues he was facing.
“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.” – Justin Timberlake
His departure comes as Timberlake was battling a severe bout with the flu on his current tour. So unfortunately, he had to cancel his last U.S. show in February. On Wednesday, he played his last concert of the European tour in Turkey’s capital Ankara. This stunning performance concluded an amazing series that began all the way back in April.
Lyme disease, which is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, is most commonly transmitted to humans after a bite from an infected tick. The disease prevails throughout the Northeast and in the upper Midwest. Its peak is in late spring, summer, and fall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), we should be placing much more emphasis on preventive measures. They advise taking “tick checks” after spending time outside and wearing insect repellent with DEET.
Timberlake’s choice to be open about his health struggles speaks to anyone who knows the challenges that come with deceiving Lyme disease. “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,” he explained.
Though he faced other challenges from his diagnosis, Timberlake remained thankful for the moments that came during his time on tour. His resolve to keep singing and acting while navigating his new health circumstances is a testament to his strength and devotion to performance artistry.
