Alan Jackson Opens Up About Battling Degenerative Disease Ahead of Farewell Tour
Fans expected celebration and music, but what unfolded during Alan Jackson’s recent interview caught everyone off guard. Behind the iconic smile and timeless voice, the country superstar revealed a deeply personal struggle threatening to cut his touring career short—a battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease that left him in tears and fans around the world in shock.
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The legendary singer, known for classics like Remember When and Chattahoochee, grew emotional while discussing his health ahead of the “Last Call: One More for the Road Tour.” Jackson shared that worsening symptoms of the genetic nerve disorder have made touring increasingly difficult, raising doubts about his future performances.
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Announcing what will be his final full-length concert, Jackson revealed the farewell show is set for Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Nashville’s Nissan Stadium—the heart of country music. “It’s been a long road,” Jackson reflected. “But I can’t think of a better place to put on a big show and include so many special friends.”
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The star-studded event will feature appearances by Luke Bryan, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, Carrie Underwood, Riley Green, Cody Johnson, Jon Pardi, Lee Ann Womack, and Keith Urban—a true celebration of Jackson’s decades-long legacy. Fans eager for tickets can access presales through his official website, with early access for fan club members beginning June 7, 2024.
Beyond the music, Jackson revealed the private challenges he’s faced. Diagnosed with CMT over a decade ago, the condition gradually weakens muscles in the extremities, affecting balance, mobility, and coordination.
“I know I’m stumbling around on stage,” he admitted during a candid interview with Today. “Even at the microphone, it’s getting more difficult. I just feel very uncomfortable.” While the disease does not shorten life expectancy, it significantly impacts daily movement—a struggle Jackson has confronted while maintaining his signature performances.
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Through it all, his greatest support has been his wife of over 40 years, his high school sweetheart. “When I’m down, he lifts me up. When he’s down, I try to lift him up,” she shared. Their enduring partnership has been a cornerstone of his resilience, both in private battles and on stage.
Reflecting on his career, Jackson acknowledged his role in preserving the traditional soul of country music. “I’m just grateful to have made music I love and shared it with fans who care,” he said.
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For more than four decades, Alan Jackson has been celebrated for his authenticity, humility, and timeless voice. Yet behind the accolades, he has quietly contended with a progressive condition that makes each performance a physical challenge. His farewell tour promises to honor this legacy, while highlighting the courage and vulnerability of a music legend confronting his own limits.
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Conclusion
Alan Jackson’s final tour is more than a farewell concert—it’s a testament to resilience, dedication, and the human side of stardom. While fans celebrate his legendary career, his emotional disclosure about battling CMT reminds us that even icons face personal struggles. As he takes the stage one last time, Jackson’s story stands as a powerful reminder of perseverance, love, and the enduring connection between artist and audience.