Alan Jackson’s Brave Health Battle: Inside the Country Legend’s Decade-Long Journey with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease
Country music icon Alan Jackson has spent over a decade living with a rare neurological condition — and in true Jackson fashion, he’s facing it with quiet strength, humility, and an unwavering connection to his fans.
The 66-year-old singer-songwriter, best known for timeless hits like “Chattahoochee” and “Remember When,” first revealed his diagnosis with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) in 2021. Although he had learned of the condition nearly 10 years earlier, Jackson kept the news private — until it began affecting his stage performances in a noticeable way.
“I’ve been reluctant to talk about this publicly and to my fans,” Jackson admitted in a candid Today show interview. “But it’s been a while, and it’s starting to affect my performance onstage a little bit where I don’t feel comfortable.”
Fans who’d seen Jackson perform in recent years had noticed him struggling with balance, swaying more than usual, or leaning on the microphone stand for support. The artist, known for his smooth presence and low-key stage charisma, wanted to set the record straight.
“I don’t want them to think I’m drunk onstage,” he said honestly. “I’m having problems with mobility and balance… I just want people to know that’s why I look like I do, if they’re wondering.”
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A Bittersweet Return to the Stage
In May 2025, Jackson made a moving return to the spotlight when he appeared at the 60th Annual Academy of Country Music Awards to perform and accept the Alan Jackson Lifetime Achievement Award, named in his honor.
The crowd’s response was thunderous, a powerful recognition of a man who has given so much to the genre — and who continues to inspire, even while facing personal health challenges.
He delivered a heartfelt performance, his voice steady and soulful, proving that while his body may struggle, the music remains untouched. It was a moment that brought both tears and standing ovations, underscoring just how deeply Alan Jackson is loved.
Not Slowing Down, Just Adapting
Despite his diagnosis and the physical toll it’s taken, Jackson has made it clear he has no plans to retire completely. He acknowledges that touring may become more difficult, but stepping away from music entirely isn’t in his nature.
“I’ll just have to figure out what works best for me doing the shows,” he told fans. “But I’m certainly not retiring.”
Instead, Jackson is leaning into what he does best — storytelling through song, connecting through honesty, and living with the quiet dignity that has always defined him.
As he continues navigating this journey, one thing is clear: Alan Jackson’s legacy isn’t simply built on his awards or chart-toppers. It’s built on grace, resilience, and a deep, unbreakable bond with the fans who’ve stood by him every step of the way.