Alan Jackson Shares His Battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease: A Journey of Strength and Resilience
This morning, Alan Jackson, the country music icon, opened up about his battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) during an interview on the Today Show with Jenna Bush Hager. Jackson, whose career spans nearly three decades and includes a well-earned spot in the Country Music Hall of Fame since 2017, shared personal insights into living with CMT, a genetic neurological condition that has had a significant impact on his life and career.
“I have this neuropathy and neurological disease,” Jackson explained on the show. “It’s genetic that I inherited from my daddy… There’s no cure for it, but it’s been affecting me for years.” CMT is a group of inherited disorders that affect the peripheral nerves, which connect the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. Over time, CMT can cause progressive muscle weakness and atrophy, leading to challenges with movement and balance.
For Jackson, the effects of CMT have primarily impacted his feet and legs, making walking and maintaining balance increasingly difficult. As a musician whose career is defined by his ability to perform on stage, these physical limitations have significantly influenced his performances. Jackson acknowledged that CMT has made it harder for him to perform at the level he once did, which has led him to adjust his touring schedule.
“I’m stumbling around on stage, and now I’m having a little trouble balancing even in front of the microphone,” Jackson said, noting the difficulty of adjusting to his changing body during performances. Despite these challenges, Jackson has continued to perform, though he has scaled back his touring to accommodate his condition. “I just feel very uncomfortable, and I just want people to know that’s why I look like I do,” he explained.
While CMT has no cure, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Jackson has remained committed to maintaining a positive outlook, and his perseverance is a testament to his resilience. He continues to perform, including his emotional appearance at the 2025 ACM Awards, where he received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his incredible contributions to country music.
Jackson’s decision to publicly share his diagnosis in 2021 helped raise awareness for CMT, a condition that affects more than 3 million people worldwide. His openness has been a beacon of light for the CMT community, which has rallied together to share their stories and raise awareness. His courage in speaking out about his own journey has undoubtedly made a significant impact, inspiring others who may be facing similar health challenges.
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Throughout his decades-long career, Jackson has been a beloved figure in country music, known for his classic hits like Chattahoochee, Remember When, and Gone Country. His ability to adapt to the challenges of living with CMT while continuing to perform shows his unwavering dedication to his fans and his craft. Jackson’s story is one of strength, determination, and an enduring love for music that continues to shine despite the obstacles he faces.
As we recognize CMT Awareness Month, the community is grateful to Alan Jackson for using his platform to shed light on the condition, offering support and encouragement to those living with CMT. His ongoing journey serves as a reminder of the importance of resilience, positivity, and never giving up on what you love, no matter the challenges life throws your way.