Alan Jackson Opens Up About His Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease Diagnosis and Health Journey
Country music legend Alan Jackson has been open about his decade-long battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a degenerative nerve condition that has gradually affected his balance and mobility.
The 63-year-old singer, known for hits like “Don’t Rock the Jukebox” and “Chattahoochee,” first shared his diagnosis with the public in 2021, revealing that he had been dealing with the condition for over a decade.Appearing on The Today Show in September 2021, Jackson explained that the disease had started to impact his performances. “It’s getting more and more obvious,” he said at the time, noting that he had been struggling with balance issues and had difficulty moving onstage.
“I know I’m stumbling around onstage. And now I’m having a little trouble balancing, even in front of the microphone, and so I just feel very uncomfortable.”Jackson, who had kept the news private for many years, said he felt it was important to explain his condition to his fans, especially as it began to interfere with his performances. “I don’t want them to think I’m drunk onstage because I’m having problems with mobility and balance,” he clarified. “I just wanted the fans and the public to know what’s going on.”
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a hereditary neurological disorder, primarily affects the motor and sensory nerves that control the muscles in the feet, legs, hands, and arms. While there is no cure, the disease can be managed through therapy and medical support.
Jackson explained that he inherited the condition from his late father and revealed that other family members, including his paternal grandmother and older sister, had also been diagnosed.”It’s not going to kill me. It’s not deadly,” Jackson said, trying to reassure his fans. “It’s not fatal — it’s just going to disable me eventually.” Despite the challenges, Jackson’s message to his fans remained optimistic. “I don’t want to appear like some whiny celebrity,” he added.
“I just want people to know that’s why I look like I do, if they’re wondering.”In May 2025, Jackson returned to the stage to perform at the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, where he was honored with a lifetime achievement award named after him.
His openness about his health has inspired many, and he continues to perform when he is able, showing resilience in the face of a challenging diagnosis.