Justin Timberlake’s NSYNC Bandmate Shows Support Amid Lyme Disease Struggles

Following disappointed reviews from fans who felt Justin Timberlake lacked energy during his “Forget Tomorrow” World Tour, his concerts are now viewed from a different perspective in light of his Lyme disease diagnosis. The singer suffered from a debilitating disease while also spending 16 months on the road performing live. That shows a mind-boggling amount of dedication when most battling the illness would be struggling just to get out of bed.

“When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure,” he wrote in an eye-opening Instagram post. “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.”

As the “Trolls” star opens up about his struggles, he can count on his NSYNC bandmates to have his back. Just hours after Timberlake’s post, Chris Kirkpatrick shared a heartwarming statement, showing his support for his longtime friend.

Kirkpatrick Celebrates Timberlake’s Incredible Resilience

“I’ve always known my little bro was tough—but this tour showed me a whole new level of strength,” Kirkpatrick wrote alongside a photo of him, Timberlake, Lance Bass, and JC Chasez.

“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.”

“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,” he added. “Love you little bro!”

In the comments, Timberlake wrote, “❤️❤️❤️.”

Stars Like Justin Bieber and Avril Lavigne Have Spoken About the Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is mainly transmitted by deer or blacklegged ticks. While a bull’s-eye-shaped rash often characterizes it, not everyone gets the rash. For Justin Bieber, his facial drooping — Bell’s palsy — was a sign of his Lyme disease. Symptoms can range from fever, chills, sweats, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea, and joint pain. In the early stages of the disease, many describe it as feeling like they have the flu.

Justin Timberlake is one of several musicians who have bravely come forward and shared their Lyme disease diagnosis. Bieber, Shania Twain, Fletcher, Debbie Gibson, Daryl Hall, and Avril Lavigne have also battled the disease.

The illness affected Lavigne so much that she not only wrote a song about the experience, but also started the Avril Lavigne Foundation. Along with supporting people with disabilities and serious illnesses, it works to make the public more aware of Lyme disease.