Alan Jackson’s Health Condition: A Decade-Long Journey with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Country music legend Alan Jackson has been quietly battling a rare, degenerative neurological condition called Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) for more than a decade—a battle he publicly acknowledged in 2021, though he had been living with the diagnosis for 10 years prior.
A Gradual Decline in Mobility and Balance
Jackson, known for his hits like “Chattahoochee” and “Livin’ on Love,” revealed the diagnosis during an appearance on NBC’s Today Show, explaining how the disease was beginning to affect his balance and stage presence. “I know I’m stumbling around onstage… and now I’m having a little trouble balancing, even in front of the microphone,” he said. “It’s not deadly, but it’s going to disable me eventually.”
CMT is a genetic disorder that damages the peripheral nerves—those responsible for muscle control and sensory information. It often affects movement in the feet, legs, hands, and arms, and while not fatal, it progressively worsens over time. In Jackson’s case, the condition runs in the family—he inherited it from his late father, and both his paternal grandmother and older sister were also diagnosed.
Onstage Challenges and Emotional Toll
Though fans had begun to notice signs of physical discomfort during performances, Jackson said he initially hesitated to go public. “I didn’t want people to think I was drunk onstage,” he admitted. “So I just felt like it was time to let people know.” Despite the challenges, he stressed that he wasn’t seeking pity: “I don’t want to appear like some whiny celebrity.”
Jackson described the emotional strain of continuing to perform while struggling with balance as a kind of relief once he shared the truth: “It just made me nervous up there trying to keep my balance. I look pitiful. So I think it’ll be good for me now to get it out in the open.”
Continuing to Perform and Inspire
Despite the diagnosis, Jackson did not retreat from music. In 2022, he launched the Last Call: One More for the Road Tour, a national tour that paid homage to his musical heroes who kept performing into their later years. “I’ve always admired people like George Jones and Merle Haggard who just played as much as they wanted to, as long as they could,” he said.
To raise awareness and support research, $1 from every ticket sold went to the CMT Research Foundation. Though he had to postpone two shows in October 2022 due to health concerns, Jackson’s commitment to his fans remained unwavering. “I hate to disappoint my fans,” he said. “I tried as much as I could to play this show at this time.”
Lifetime Achievement and Looking Ahead
In May 2025, Alan Jackson made an emotional return to the spotlight at the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards, where he performed and accepted a lifetime achievement award that now bears his name. The moment served as a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy—even as his health challenges continue.
While Jackson has scaled back his touring commitments, he’s made clear that he’s not stepping away from music entirely. In a 2023 podcast with his daughter, Mattie Jackson, he expressed hope to continue writing and recording, noting that songwriting remains the most fulfilling aspect of his career. “If I didn’t write, I think I would’ve gotten bored just singing a long time ago.”
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A Legacy That Transcends Illness
Alan Jackson’s journey with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is one of quiet strength, transparency, and perseverance. While the disease has impacted his physical capabilities, it has not diminished his artistic drive, nor his connection with fans. By sharing his story, Jackson continues to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and show that even in the face of a progressive illness, the music doesn’t have to stop.