Alan Jackson, the beloved country music icon, has been living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease for over a decade, a diagnosis he publicly revealed in 2021. This rare, progressive genetic disorder affects the motor and sensory nerves that control the muscles, primarily in the feet, legs, hands, and arms. CMT has caused Jackson significant mobility challenges, impacting his ability to perform on stage, a situation he openly discussed during an appearance on The Today Show in September 2021.
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Diagnosis and Impact on Performance
Alan Jackson was diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease around 2011, though he had not made the diagnosis public until 2021. As his symptoms became more apparent, particularly on stage, Jackson decided to share his diagnosis with his fans. “It’s getting more and more obvious,” he confessed, referring to the increasing difficulty he had with balance and mobility during performances. “I know I’m stumbling around onstage,” he explained, expressing his discomfort as he tried to manage the condition while still delivering the high-energy performances his fans were used to.
Despite these challenges, Jackson made it clear that CMT would not be fatal. “It’s not going to kill me. It’s not deadly,” he reassured his fans. “It’s not fatal — it’s just going to disable me eventually.”
Hereditary Condition
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is hereditary, and Jackson’s case is no exception. He inherited the condition from his father, and it has also affected other family members, including his paternal grandmother and older sister. The disease affects nerve function, leading to muscle weakness and atrophy, particularly in the limbs, and can impair coordination and balance. Although there is no cure for CMT, Jackson emphasized that it is manageable through supportive therapy.
Dealing with the Physical Challenges
In the same Today Show interview, Jackson spoke candidly about the physical toll the disease has taken on him. He expressed his reluctance to discuss it publicly but acknowledged that he no longer felt comfortable hiding it as his symptoms became more evident. He explained that he didn’t want fans to misunderstand his symptoms, saying, “I don’t want them to think I’m drunk onstage because I’m having problems with mobility and balance.”
This openness has garnered an outpouring of support from his fans, who admire his resilience and honesty. Jackson has made it clear that despite these physical limitations, his passion for music remains strong.
Jackson’s Ongoing Career
Despite the challenges posed by Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Jackson has continued to perform, and he remains a beloved figure in country music. In 2025, he performed at the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, where he also received a Lifetime Achievement Award in his honor.
His career has spanned over 30 years, and he has amassed countless hits, including “Chattahoochee,” “Don’t Rock the Jukebox,” and “Gone Country.” His fans remain loyal, and his ability to continue performing and sharing his music, even with his condition, is a testament to his determination and love for his craft.
Looking Ahead
Jackson’s journey with CMT has not been easy, but his continued dedication to music and his fans is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit. While he may face more challenges as his condition progresses, Jackson remains hopeful and optimistic, focusing on what he loves most—making music and performing for his fans.
“I’ve had a wonderful, beautiful life,” Jackson has said. “I’ve been so blessed. I can’t even imagine what other people go through. But this is not something that I would be complaining about.” His positive outlook, combined with his unwavering passion for music, has continued to inspire his fans and peers alike.
Though he faces an uncertain future with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Alan Jackson’s legacy as one of country music’s greatest artists is secure, and his story continues to be one of resilience, grace, and love for the art form.