Justin Timberlake reveals secret illness after being slammed for 'lazy' shows

The Rock Your Body hitmaker has come under fire from fans for 'hardly singing' and relying on the crowd during his much hyped Forget Tomorrow World Tour.

Some fans have even demanded refunds after accusing the singer of putting in the 'bare minimum' and 'lip-synching' during his shows, but it turns out Justin has been secretly battling a debilitating illness.

Justin Timberlake. Pic: Getty Images

As the tour wrapped in July, he announced that he had been suffering from Lyme disease and had at one point debated cancelling the tour, but ultimately decided to plough on.

He added that he didn't reveal the news sooner because he had been raised to keep health concerns to himself, but also doesn't want people to feel sorry for him.

Lyme disease is caused by a tick bite and causes brain fog, muscle pain, swollen joints and fatigue and can last for weeks, but some sufferers have Lyme disease for years.

Justin told fans: 'This has been the most fun, emotional, gratifying, demanding, and, at times, gruelling experience. I could not have done it without my family, friends, The TN Kids, and all of your support.

'Among other things, 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.

'If you've experienced this disease or know someone who has -then you are aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating both mentally and physically.'

He went on to say that he was shocked by the diagnosis but took some comfort in understanding why he was feeling 'a massive amount of nerve pain, ot just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness.'

Justin's symptoms were so bad that he considered backing out of the tour, but decided to work through his illness.

'I decided the joy that performing brings me far outweighs the fleeting stress my body was feeling. I'm so glad I kept going,' he said.

Justin Timberlake. Pic: Getty Images

Justin continued: '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.'

He signed off explaining that he was speaking out about his Lyme disease because he doesn't want his struggles to be misinterpreted, but also because he hopes to do his part to help others with Lyme disease.