Alan Jackson Opens Up About His Health Struggles with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Alan Jackson, the legendary country singer known for his heartfelt lyrics and decades of hit songs, has been transparent about his ongoing battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a rare and degenerative neurological condition. Jackson made the brave decision to share his diagnosis publicly in 2021 during an emotional appearance on the Today show, where he revealed he had been living with the disease for over a decade.
CMT affects the motor and sensory nerves, particularly those in the feet, legs, hands, and arms. The condition leads to muscle weakness and loss of coordination, particularly in the lower limbs, and while it is not fatal, it can be debilitating over time. For Jackson, the symptoms have slowly made it more difficult to perform on stage, an environment he has thrived in for decades. He explained that the disease had begun to affect his balance, making it harder for him to move around and perform without feeling uncomfortable.
Jackson’s decision to go public with his diagnosis was motivated by his growing concerns over his onstage appearance. He shared that he had been hesitant to talk about his condition before, but the symptoms had become more noticeable. “I just wanted the fans and the public to know if they’ve come to see me in the last few years or if they come to see me in the future if I play anymore, what’s going on,” Jackson explained. “I don’t want them to think I’m drunk onstage because I’m having problems with mobility and balance.”
The singer also explained that CMT is a hereditary condition, something he inherited from his late father, with his paternal grandmother and older sister also diagnosed with the disease. Jackson was quick to reassure his fans, emphasizing that the disease would not kill him. “It’s not going to kill me, it’s not deadly… It’s not fatal — it’s just going to disable me eventually,” he said, demonstrating the kind of courage and resilience that has characterized his life and career.
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Despite the difficulties caused by his condition, Jackson has not let it define his life or his music. He remains committed to performing, though he has acknowledged that his shows may be different in the future due to his mobility challenges. Jackson’s openness about his health challenges has helped shed light on a disease that affects many but is often misunderstood or overlooked by the public.
In May 2025, Jackson made a triumphant return to the stage at the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, where he not only performed but also accepted the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award named in his honor. The award was a testament to his decades of hard work and musical contributions, but it was also a symbol of his strength and perseverance in the face of personal health battles.
Jackson’s candidness about his health struggles has resonated with many of his fans, who admire him not only for his musical talent but for his authenticity and bravery in sharing his journey. As Jackson continues to create music and connect with his audience, his story serves as a reminder of the power of resilience, the importance of embracing challenges, and the beauty of creating art that speaks to the human experience.