'I was shocked': Justin Timberlake shares his diagnosis after world tour

Justin Timberlake talks about his serious illness

The singer admits that he has been battling Lyme disease for the past few years.

In an honest social media post, he explained that he decided to share his diagnosis not for sympathy, but to shed light on his behind-the-scenes struggle.

"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," wrote the "SexyBack" hitmaker.

"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 added.

Justin Timberlake diagnosed with Lyme disease (screenshot)

This confession came at the end of his two-year world tour, Forget Tomorrow, during which Timberlake was criticized for less energetic performances towards the end of the tour.

The singer says he was shocked when he learned about his diagnosis.

"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," said Justin.

Lyme disease is an infection transmitted through bites from infected ticks.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, at an early stage, it manifests with flu-like symptoms: headaches, fever, joint pain, and fatigue.

A typical symptom is also a "bull's-eye" rash around the bite site.

In more severe cases, it can cause problems with the nervous system, facial paralysis, swelling, numbness, or cognitive impairments.

Timberlake shared that he had doubts about continuing the tour because of his health, but decided not to stop.

"The joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I'm so glad I kept going," shared Timberlake.

Throughout the tour, the artist had already canceled or postponed concerts due to bronchitis, laryngitis, a back injury, and an ankle injury.

Justin Timberlake diagnosed with Lyme disease (screenshot)

But only now has he openly revealed the real cause of his exhaustion.

"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. Sharing all of this with the hope that we can all find a way to be more connected. I'd like to do my part to help others experiencing this disease too," says the celebrity.

He ended his post with a photo of him hugging his son Silas (taken from the back), and thanked his family.

"Jess, Silas, and Phin… nothing is more powerful than your unconditional love. You are my heart and my home. I'm on my way," Justin addressed his loved ones.

Justin Timberlake with his son (photo: instagram.com/justintimberlake)

Support for Timberlake was expressed by friends, including his NSYNC bandmate Chris Kirkpatrick.

"I've always known my little bro was tough—but this tour showed me a whole new level of strength. Watching him battle Lyme disease day in and day out, while still getting on that stage night after night, was something I'll never forget. The long days, the travel, the exhaustion—and yet, he never gave up. No complaints, no excuses—just heart, grit, and pure determination. That kind of resilience is rare," wrote Chris.

"I couldn't be more proud to call him my friend. Tour life is already a grind, but doing it while fighting Lyme disease? That's superhero status. Here's to strength, perseverance, and one hell of a tour. Love you little bro!" he concluded.

Chris Kirkpatrick supports Timberlake (photo: instagram.com/iamckirkpatrick)