History of Justin Timberlake in Timeline

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Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake, an American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and dancer, is recognized as the "Prince of Pop" and one of the best-selling music artists. Billboard has lauded him as one of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century. His accolades include ten Grammy Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, three Brit Awards, nine Billboard Music Awards, the Contemporary Icon Award by the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and MTV's Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

2 days ago : Joey Fatone Discusses Justin Timberlake's MTV Awards Moment and Solo Career

Joey Fatone called Justin Timberlake's MTV Awards moment 'BS' and discussed Timberlake's solo career, stating 'there was never a goodbye'. Separately, the TV show 'Beef' returns with a new feud.

January 31, 1981: Justin Timberlake Born

On January 31, 1981, Justin Randall Timberlake was born in Memphis, Tennessee, to Janet Lynn (née Bomar) Harless and Charles Randall Timberlake.

1993: Joining The All New Mickey Mouse Club

In 1993, Justin Timberlake became a Mouseketeer on The All New Mickey Mouse Club, where he worked alongside future stars like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, JC Chasez, Ryan Gosling, and Keri Russell.

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1995: Recruitment into NSYNC

In 1995, Justin Timberlake recruited JC Chasez to join an all-male singing group, which was formed by Chris Kirkpatrick and financed by Lou Pearlman, leading to the creation of NSYNC.

1996: NSYNC Recording and Performing in Europe

In 1996, NSYNC, with Justin Timberlake and JC Chasez as lead singers, began recording and performing in Europe.

1997: Loss of Half-Sister

In 1997, Justin Timberlake's half-sister, Laura Katherine, passed away shortly after birth; he mentioned her as "My Angel in Heaven" in the acknowledgments of an NSYNC album.

1998: NSYNC's Debut Album

In 1998, NSYNC gained prominence in the United States with the release of their self-titled debut album, which sold 11 million copies and included the single "Tearin' Up My Heart."

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1999: Relationship with Britney Spears Begins

In early 1999, Justin Timberlake began dating Britney Spears, who was also a former cast member of The All New Mickey Mouse Club and a singer.

2000: Film Debut in Model Behavior

In 2000, Justin Timberlake made his film debut in The Wonderful World of Disney film Model Behavior, playing the role of Jason Sharpe.

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2000: NSYNC Releases 'No Strings Attached'

In 2000, NSYNC released their third album, No Strings Attached, which sold 2.4 million copies in its first week, setting a record for the fastest-selling album of all time. The album features the hit singles "It's Gonna Be Me", "Bye Bye Bye", and "This I Promise You". NSYNC also performed at the Academy Awards.

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2000: Pregnancy and Abortion during Timberlake-Spears Relationship

In late 2000, Britney Spears became pregnant during her relationship with Justin Timberlake. She had an abortion after Timberlake said they were not ready for parenthood and he did not want to be a father. As detailed in her 2023 memoir, 'The Woman in Me'

2001: Writing 'Gone' for Michael Jackson

Around 2001, Justin Timberlake wrote the single "Gone" for Michael Jackson, but Jackson turned it down; the song was later recorded by NSYNC.

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2001: Appearance in Elton John's Music Video

In 2001, Justin Timberlake appeared as a young Elton John in the music video for John's song, "This Train Don't Stop There Anymore".

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2001: Release of 'Celebrity'

In 2001, NSYNC's fourth album, Celebrity, was released, achieving financial success with 1.8 million copies sold in its first week and featuring the top-five single "Girlfriend".

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March 2002: Relationship with Britney Spears Ends

In March 2002, Justin Timberlake's relationship with Britney Spears ended abruptly.

August 2002: Debut Solo Performance at MTV Video Music Awards

In August 2002, Justin Timberlake performed at the 2002 MTV Video Music Awards, premiering his debut solo single, "Like I Love You".

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2002: NSYNC Hiatus and Solo Work

By 2002, when NSYNC went on an indefinite hiatus, Justin Timberlake partnered with Pharrell Williams and Timbaland to start working on new music.

2002: Start of solo career and evolution of style

In 2002, Justin Timberlake began his solo career with the release of Justified, initiating a style evolution from synchronized boy-band attire to a source of men's fashion inspiration.

2002: Release of "Justified" and Co-Headlining Tour

In 2002, Justin Timberlake released his debut album, Justified, which blended R&B with dance-pop, funk, and soul, influenced by Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder. He then co-headlined the Justified and Stripped Tour with Christina Aguilera, receiving praise for his performance.

2002: Multiplatinum release of Justified

In 2002, Justin Timberlake released his multiplatinum album, Justified.

2002: Public scrutiny over past comments and apology

In 2002, after the release of Framing Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake faced public scrutiny regarding old comments he made describing his relationship with Britney Spears following their breakup, leading to accusations of misogynistic rhetoric and renewed attention to the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show controversy. Timberlake later issued a public apology on his Instagram page, acknowledging his benefit from a system condoning misogyny and racism, vowing to do better.

2002: NSYNC's Indefinite Hiatus

In 2002, upon the completion of the Celebrity Tour, NSYNC went on an indefinite hiatus.

2002: Performance at the Winter Olympics

NSYNC performed at the 2002 Winter Olympics.

2002: First Celebrity on Punk'd

Near the end of 2002, Justin Timberlake was the first celebrity to be pranked on Ashton Kutcher's show, Punk'd. He was also the first celebrity to appear on the show more than once.

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April 2003: Relationship with Cameron Diaz Begins

In April 2003, Justin Timberlake began a relationship with actress Cameron Diaz after meeting her at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards.

October 2003: Saturday Night Live Hosting Debut

In October 2003, Justin Timberlake made his first sole appearance on Saturday Night Live as both host and musical guest, partnering with Jimmy Fallon on The Barry Gibb Talk Show skit.

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2003: Britney Spears' and Madonna's kiss at the MTV Video Music Awards

In 2003 Britney Spears and Madonna kissed at the MTV Video Music Awards.

2003: Spoofing Punk'd on Saturday Night Live

In 2003, Justin Timberlake spoofed Ashton Kutcher and Punk'd on Saturday Night Live. He also co-starred in The Barry Gibb Talk Show skit with Jimmy Fallon.

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2003: Rolling Stone names Timberlake "The New King of Pop"

In 2003, Rolling Stone named Justin Timberlake the biggest pop star of the year and featured him on the magazine's cover, declaring him "The New King of Pop".

February 2004: Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show Controversy

In February 2004, Justin Timberlake performed with Janet Jackson at the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show. During the performance, Timberlake tore off part of Jackson's costume, resulting in a "wardrobe malfunction" that exposed Jackson's breast to a television audience of over 140 million viewers. Timberlake later apologized for the incident.

2004: Focus on Acting After Super Bowl Incident

After the Super Bowl incident in 2004, Justin Timberlake opted out of an NSYNC reunion and focused on his acting career.

2004: Recording 'Good Foot' for Shark Tale Soundtrack

In 2004, Justin Timberlake recorded "Good Foot" with Timbaland for the soundtrack of the film Shark Tale.

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May 5, 2005: Throat Surgery

On May 5, 2005, Justin Timberlake underwent surgery to remove nodules from his throat and was advised not to sing or speak loudly for a few months.

December 2005: Production of FutureSex/LoveSounds Begins

In December 2005, Justin Timberlake began production on his second album, FutureSex/LoveSounds, with producer Timbaland.

2005: Creation of FutureSex/LoveSounds

Justin Timberlake created his album, FutureSex/LoveSounds, between 2005 and 2006.

July 2006: Release of "SexyBack"

In July 2006, Justin Timberlake released "SexyBack", the lead single from his album FutureSex/LoveSounds, which quickly reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

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July 18, 2006: Direct-to-Video Release of 'Edison Force'

On July 18, 2006, Edison Force, filmed in 2004 and starring Justin Timberlake as a journalist, was released direct-to-video.

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September 12, 2006: Release of FutureSex/LoveSounds Album

On September 12, 2006, Justin Timberlake released his second album, FutureSex/LoveSounds, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart, selling 684,000 copies in its first week. The album featured guest vocals from Snoop Dogg, Three 6 Mafia, T.I., and will.i.am.

December 2006: Split with Cameron Diaz

In December 2006, Justin Timberlake and Cameron Diaz split after much speculation of breakups throughout their relationship.

December 16, 2006: Saturday Night Live Hosting

On December 16, 2006, Justin Timberlake hosted Saturday Night Live, serving as both host and musical guest. During the show, he and Andy Samberg performed "Dick in a Box", an R&B song for a skit that became a viral hit.

2006: Release of "FutureSex/LoveSounds"

In 2006, Justin Timberlake released his follow-up album, FutureSex/LoveSounds, which explored a broader sound, incorporating elements of rap, rock, funk, soul, gospel, new wave, opera, and world music. The album drew inspiration from artists like David Bowie and Prince.

January 2007: Relationship with Jessica Biel Begins

In January 2007, Justin Timberlake began dating actress Jessica Biel.

January 2007: FutureSex/LoveShow Tour

In January 2007, Justin Timberlake began the FutureSex/LoveShow tour.

June 2007: Collaboration with Duran Duran

In June 2007, Justin Timberlake co-wrote, produced, and provided vocals for the songs "Nite Runner" and "Falling Down" for Duran Duran's album Red Carpet Massacre.

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November 13, 2007: Duran Duran's album Red Carpet Massacre Release

On November 13, 2007, Duran Duran's album Red Carpet Massacre, featuring collaborations with Justin Timberlake, was released.

November 2007: FutureSex/LoveSounds Tour Ends and Film Career Resumes

In November 2007, Justin Timberlake wrapped up the FutureSex/LoveSounds tour and resumed his film career.

December 17, 2007: "4 Minutes" First Played by Timbaland

On December 17, 2007, Timbaland first played the song "4 Minutes" at Philadelphia's Jingle Ball.

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2007: Voice Acting Role in Shrek the Third

In 2007, Justin Timberlake voiced Prince Artie Pendragon in the animated film Shrek the Third.

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2007: The New York Times on Timberlake's sex-symbol edge

In 2007, The New York Times' editor Sia Michel noted that Justin Timberlake had learned how to project sex-symbol edge since his last tour for 2002's multiplatinum Justified.

2007: Timberlake appears on Time 100 list for the first time

Justin Timberlake appeared for the first time on the Time 100 list of most influential people by Time in 2007.

February 2008: Grammy Awards

In February 2008, at the 50th Grammy Awards ceremony, Justin Timberlake won the Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for "What Goes Around...Comes Around" and the Award for Best Dance Recording for "LoveStoned/I Think She Knows".

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March 2008: Executive Producer for My Problem with Women

In March 2008, Justin Timberlake was announced as an executive producer for an American adaptation of the comedy My Problem with Women for NBC.

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March 17, 2008: "4 Minutes" Release

On March 17, 2008, "4 Minutes", a duet between Justin Timberlake and Madonna featuring Timbaland, was released as the lead single from Madonna's album, Hard Candy.

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June 2008: Timberlake's Earnings and Forbes Ranking

In June 2008, Forbes reported that Justin Timberlake earned $44 million between June 2007 and June 2008 from his music, tour, commercials, and hospitality. This made him the world's 4th best-paid music personality, surpassing Madonna and Celine Dion, and ranked him twelfth on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list and second on the "Best-Paid Celebrities Under 30" list.

June 20, 2008: The Love Guru Release

On June 20, 2008, The Love Guru, starring Justin Timberlake, was released.

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November 2008: Collaboration with Ciara

In November 2008, it was confirmed that Justin Timberlake would make a guest appearance and produce tracks on Ciara's upcoming album, Fantasy Ride.

November 20, 2008: "Follow My Lead" Release

On November 20, 2008, Justin Timberlake's single "Follow My Lead", featuring Esmée Denters, was released exclusively through Myspace, with proceeds going to Shriners Hospitals for Children.

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February 20, 2009: "Love Sex Magic" Music Video Shoot

On February 20, 2009, the music video for Ciara's single "Love Sex Magic", featuring Justin Timberlake, was shot.

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March 2, 2009: Appearance on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon

On March 2, 2009, Justin Timberlake appeared on Jimmy Fallon's debut as host of Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.

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April 21, 2009: Executive Producer on The Phone

On April 21, 2009, Justin Timberlake was the executive producer on the MTV reality series The Phone, which premiered on that date.

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May 5, 2009: Fantasy Ride Album Release

On May 5, 2009, Ciara's album Fantasy Ride, featuring Justin Timberlake, was released.

August 28, 2009: The Open Road Release

On August 28, 2009, The Open Road, starring Justin Timberlake, was released.

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November 17, 2009: Song Production for Leona Lewis

On November 17, 2009, Justin Timberlake and his production team, The Y's, produced and co-wrote the song "Don't Let Me Down" for Leona Lewis's second album, Echo.

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December 1, 2009: Collaboration with Timbaland

On December 1, 2009, Justin Timberlake co-wrote and performed on "Carry Out", the third single from Timbaland's album Shock Value II.

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September 12, 2010: MTV VMAs Appearance

On September 12, 2010, Justin Timberlake appeared at the 2010 MTV VMAs.

2010: Timberlake purchases SoHo unit

In 2010, Justin Timberlake purchased a unit at 311 West Broadway in SoHo, previously owned by Oscar de la Renta, for $6.56 million.

July 2011: Marine Corps Ball Invitation

In July 2011, United States Marine Kelsey De Santis invited Justin Timberlake via a YouTube video to be her date to the United States Marine Corps birthday ball.

August 2011: FreeSol Music Video Cameo

In August 2011, Justin Timberlake directed and made a cameo in the FreeSol music video "Hoodies On, Hats Low".

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November 13, 2011: Attended Marine Corps Birthday Ball

On November 13, 2011, Justin Timberlake attended the United States Marine Corps birthday ball with Kelsey De Santis in Richmond, Virginia.

December 2011: Engagement to Jessica Biel

In December 2011, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel became engaged.

2011: Tom Ford began dressing Timberlake

In 2011, American fashion designer Tom Ford started dressing Justin Timberlake, creating over 600 exclusive pieces for The 20/20 Experience World Tour.

2011: Timberlake supports LGBT equality after New York legalized same-sex marriage

In 2011, after New York legalized same-sex marriage, Justin Timberlake voiced his support for LGBT equality in the U.S., emphasizing acceptance and unity despite differences.

June 2012: Started working on "The 20/20 Experience" album

In June 2012, Justin Timberlake began working on his third album, The 20/20 Experience, without specific rules or goals in mind.

October 19, 2012: Marriage to Jessica Biel

On October 19, 2012, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel married at the Borgo Egnazia resort in Fasano, Italy.

2012: "It's Gonna Be May" Internet Meme

In 2012, Justin Timberlake's pronunciation of "me" in "It's Gonna Be Me" was popularized as the "It's Gonna Be May" internet meme, originating from a Tumblr image with that caption.

January 2013: Return to Music Industry Announcement

In January 2013, Justin Timberlake publicly announced his return to the music industry and released the lead single, "Suit & Tie" featuring Jay-Z.

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February 2, 2013: DirecTV Super Saturday Night Performance

On February 2, 2013, Justin Timberlake performed during the "DirecTV Super Saturday Night" in New Orleans.

February 10, 2013: 55th Annual Grammy Awards Performance

On February 10, 2013, Justin Timberlake performed "Suit & Tie" with Jay-Z at the 55th Annual Grammy Awards.

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February 11, 2013: "Mirrors" Single Release

On February 11, 2013, "Mirrors" was released as the second single from The 20/20 Experience.

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March 19, 2013: "The 20/20 Experience" Album Release

On March 19, 2013, The 20/20 Experience was released through RCA Records. The album broke digital sales records on iTunes and debuted at number one.

July 12, 2013: "Take Back the Night" Single Release

On July 12, 2013, Justin Timberlake's "Take Back the Night", the lead single from The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2, was released.

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August 25, 2013: MTV Video Music Awards

On August 25, 2013, Justin Timberlake received the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards and won three competitive awards, including Video of the Year for "Mirrors". He also briefly reunited with his former NSYNC bandmates.

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September 30, 2013: "The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2" Album Release

On September 30, 2013, Justin Timberlake's fourth album, The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2, was released and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200.

December 2013: Production Credit on Beyoncé's Album

In December 2013, Justin Timberlake received a production and writing credit on track six of Beyoncé's self-titled fifth album.

2013: Timberlake makes second appearance on Time 100 list

In 2013, Justin Timberlake made his second appearance on the Time 100 list, with Stevie Wonder praising his accomplishments, generosity, and spirit.

2013: Release of "The 20/20 Experience" and Supporting Tours

In 2013, Justin Timberlake released "The 20/20 Experience", a neo-soul album inspired by 1960s and 1970s rock structures. He supported the album with the Legends of the Summer tour, co-headlining with Jay-Z, and The 20/20 Experience World Tour, which introduced his backing ensemble, the Tennessee Kids.

2013: Timberlake Ranked Third Highest-Paid Musician of 2013

In 2013, according to Billboard, Justin Timberlake was the third highest-paid musician with earnings of $31 million.

February 25, 2014: "Not a Bad Thing" Single Release

On February 25, 2014, "Not a Bad Thing" was released as the third single from Justin Timberlake's The 20/20 Experience – 2 of 2 album.

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May 14, 2014: "Love Never Felt So Good" Music Video Release

On May 14, 2014, the music video for Michael Jackson's "Love Never Felt So Good", which was produced by Timbaland, Jerome "J-Roc" Harmon, and Justin Timberlake, was released, featuring clips of Jackson and Timberlake.

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2014: Timberlake Ranked 26th on Celebrity 100 List for 2014

In 2014, Justin Timberlake was ranked 26th on the Celebrity 100 list with earnings of $57 million and was listed at number three on the Billboard Money-Makers List.

April 2015: Birth of First Child

In April 2015, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel's first child, a son, was born.

2015: Adele Surpasses NSYNC's Album Sales Record

In 2015, Adele surpassed NSYNC's record for the fastest-selling album with her third album, 25.

2015: Timberlake and Biel Receive Inspiration Award at GLSEN Respect Awards

In 2015, Justin Timberlake and his wife, Jessica Biel, received the Inspiration Award at the GLSEN Respect Awards for their vocal support of the LGBT community and charitable work that improves the lives of youth.

2015: Performances on Saturday Night Live and Country Music Association Awards

In 2015, Justin Timberlake performed in the Saturday Night Live 40th Anniversary's cold open with Jimmy Fallon and on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He also performed with Chris Stapleton at the 49th Annual Country Music Association Awards.

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2015: Timberlake's Performance with Chris Stapleton at the Country Music Association Awards

In 2015, Justin Timberlake performed with Chris Stapleton at the Country Music Association Awards. Katie Rogers of The New York Times highlighted Timberlake's crossover appeal following the performance.

2015: Timberlake Ranked 19th on the 2015 Celebrity 100 list

In 2015, Justin Timberlake was ranked 19th on the Celebrity 100 list with $63 million in earnings.

2015: Timberlake leads "Top 10 Musicians Among Millennials"

In Nielsen Music's U.S. report for 2015, Justin Timberlake led the "Top 10 Musicians Among Millennials" list.

May 6, 2016: "Can't Stop the Feeling!" Release

On May 6, 2016, Justin Timberlake released "Can't Stop the Feeling!" as the lead single from the Trolls movie.

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May 14, 2016: Eurovision Song Contest Performance

On May 14, 2016, Justin Timberlake performed "Can't Stop the Feeling!" live at the grand finale of the Eurovision Song Contest 2016.

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November 2016: Trolls Movie Release

In November 2016, Justin Timberlake voiced the lead character and served as executive music producer for DreamWorks Animation's musical comedy Trolls, which was released in theaters.

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2016: Justin Timberlake + The Tennessee Kids Premiere

In 2016, Justin Timberlake + The Tennessee Kids, a concert film showcasing the final date of The 20/20 Experience World Tour, premiered at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival on September 13 and was dedicated to Prince.

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2016: Fifth Album Influences

In 2016, Justin Timberlake discussed the influences behind his fifth album, citing his upbringing in Tennessee and the diverse musical landscape of Memphis and Nashville. He mentioned working with producers Timbaland and Pharrell Williams, aiming for a modern sound rooted in Southern American music.

2016: Selfie Inside Voting Booth Sparks Tennessee Bill

In 2016, Justin Timberlake's selfie inside a voting booth during the presidential election, initially an illegal act, led to Senator Brian Kelsey proposing a bill in Tennessee to allow photos in voting poll stations, which was later approved.

2016: Timberlake recognized as one of the greatest entertainers

In a 2016 article in The Hollywood Reporter, editor Scott Feinberg stated Justin Timberlake is "widely regarded as one of the greatest all-around entertainers in the history of show business".

February 26, 2017: Academy Awards Performance

On February 26, 2017, Justin Timberlake opened the 89th Academy Awards with a performance of "Can't Stop the Feeling!".

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May 2017: Timberlake and Biel buy Tribeca penthouse

In May 2017, Justin Timberlake and his wife, Jessica Biel, purchased a 5,375-square-foot penthouse unit at 443 Greenwich Street in Tribeca, Manhattan, for $20.2 million.

2017: The Book of Love Soundtrack Composition

In 2017, Justin Timberlake composed the soundtrack and served as music supervisor for the film The Book of Love, which was produced by his wife, Jessica Biel.

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February 2, 2018: Man of the Woods Album Release

On February 2, 2018, Justin Timberlake released his fifth album, "Man of the Woods", two days before his Super Bowl halftime performance. The album's first single, "Filthy", had been previously released and charted in the U.S. and Canada. Several other songs were also released with music videos before the album.

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March 13, 2018: Man of the Woods Tour Kickoff

On March 13, 2018, the "Man of the Woods Tour" began in Toronto, Canada, supporting Justin Timberlake's album. The tour became one of the highest-grossing tours of the year.

October 30, 2018: Release of Autobiography "Hindsight & All the Things I Can't See In Front of Me"

On October 30, 2018, Justin Timberlake's autobiography, "Hindsight & All the Things I Can't See In Front of Me", was released. The book contains candid images and covers his early life and song inspirations.

Hindsight: & All the Things I Can't See in Front of Me
Hindsight: & All the Things I Can't See in Front of Me

2018: Producer Salli Frattini States Team Experimented With Removing Elements of Clothing

In 2018, Salli Frattini, the producer of the halftime show, stated that the production team experimented with removing elements of clothing in rehearsal to reveal Jackson's skirt without nudity but that the idea was ultimately nixed.

April 13, 2019: Man of the Woods Tour Conclusion

On April 13, 2019, Justin Timberlake's "Man of the Woods Tour" concluded in Uncasville. The tour was the sixth-highest-grossing tour of 2018.

May 2019: Honorary Doctorate from Berklee

In May 2019, Justin Timberlake received an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music. Missy Elliott and Alex Lacamoire were also honored at the ceremony.

2019: Timberlake Ranked 41st on Forbes Celebrity 100

In 2019, Justin Timberlake was ranked 41st on the Forbes Celebrity 100 list, with earnings of $57.5 million.

February 26, 2020: "The Other Side" Release

On February 26, 2020, Justin Timberlake and SZA released "The Other Side," a single from the Trolls World Tour soundtrack, along with a music video.

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March 9, 2020: "Don't Slack" Teaser Release

On March 9, 2020, Justin Timberlake released a teaser for his upcoming song "Don't Slack", featuring Anderson .Paak, which is also part of the Trolls World Tour soundtrack.

March 10, 2020: "Don't Slack" Song Release

On March 10, 2020, Justin Timberlake released the song "Don't Slack", featuring Anderson .Paak, which is part of the Trolls World Tour soundtrack.

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July 2020: Birth of Second Child

In July 2020, Justin Timberlake and Jessica Biel had a second son.

September 2020: Teasing Collaborations

In September 2020, Justin Timberlake and producer Timbaland teased potential upcoming collaborations with Justin Bieber, Justine Skye, Hit-Boy, and Ty Dolla Sign.

December 2020: "Better Days" Single Release

In December 2020, Justin Timberlake and Ant Clemons released the single "Better Days", which premiered on the Rock the Runoff virtual concert held by Stacey Abrams' organization Fair Fight.

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2020: Billboard Retrospective on Celebrity

In a 2020 retrospective article, Billboard considered NSYNC's Celebrity as "the group's swan song, setting the stage for Timberlake's equally massive solo career".

January 2021: Inauguration Performance

In January 2021, Justin Timberlake performed his collaboration with Ant Clemons during the Celebrating America special as part of the inauguration of Joe Biden from his hometown of Memphis. Timberlake later performed at Pharrell Williams' Something in the Water festival in Washington, D.C.

June 2021: Timberlake supports Britney Spears during conservatorship battle

In June 2021, Justin Timberlake publicly supported Britney Spears during her court battle over her conservatorship, stating that no woman should be restricted from making decisions about her own body and expressing his support for her freedom.

May 2023: Sixth Album Completion Teased

In May 2023, Timbaland revealed that Justin Timberlake's sixth album was completed, adding that the pair had revived the sound from the FutureSex/LoveSounds era.

September 1, 2023: "Keep Going Up" Release

On September 1, 2023, Timbaland released the single "Keep Going Up", in collaboration with Nelly Furtado and Justin Timberlake.

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2023: Spears' Memoir Details Relationship

In her 2023 memoir, "The Woman in Me", Britney Spears wrote about her relationship with Justin Timberlake, including a pregnancy and abortion in 2000.

The Woman in Me
The Woman in Me

January 19, 2024: Free Concert in Memphis

On January 19, 2024, Justin Timberlake performed a free one-night-only concert at the Orpheum in Memphis, where he live-debuted his new single "Selfish" after teasing a new project on social media.

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January 25, 2024: Tonight Show Appearance

On January 25, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to promote his new music. He announced the release of "Selfish" and revealed that his upcoming album had been in production for four years.

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January 27, 2024: Saturday Night Live Musical Guest

On January 27, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared as a musical guest on Saturday Night Live, where he performed "Selfish" and "Sanctified".

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February 22, 2024: The Graham Norton Show Appearance

On February 22, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared as the musical guest on The Graham Norton Show, recorded in London, where he performed "Selfish".

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February 23, 2024: Cancelled London Concert and "Drown" Release

On February 23, 2024, Justin Timberlake cancelled his "A One Night Only" concert, scheduled to be held at the Roundhouse in London, due to illness. The promotional single "Drown" was released on the same day.

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March 11, 2024: Complex Networks Sneaker Shopping Appearance

On March 11, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared on Complex Networks Sneaker Shopping and mentioned the upcoming release of his new album.

March 13, 2024: Concert at The Wiltern with NSYNC Reunion

On March 13, 2024, Justin Timberlake performed a concert at The Wiltern in Los Angeles. The show featured a surprise reunion with his NSYNC bandmates, who performed a medley of hits and the new album track "Paradise".

March 15, 2024: NPR Tiny Desk Concert and "No Angels" Release

On March 15, 2024, Justin Timberlake performed on NPR's Tiny Desk series for a half-hour-long concert. The second single from the album, "No Angels", was also released on the same day and so was his album.

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March 2024: Album Release Announcement

In March 2024, Justin Timberlake announced the release of his sixth album, "Everything I Thought It Was."

March 2024: Fastest-Selling Tour to Date

In March 2024, Trace William Cowen of Complex reported that the Forget Tomorrow World Tour had become Justin Timberlake's fastest-selling tour to date, amassing over $140 million globally in initial ticket sales.

April 2024: iHeartRadio Music Awards Performance

In April 2024, Justin Timberlake opened the iHeartRadio Music Awards, performing "Selfish" and "No Angels" from his new album.

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April 29, 2024: Forget Tomorrow World Tour Start

On April 29, 2024, Justin Timberlake began his Forget Tomorrow World Tour in Vancouver, Canada, to promote his album.

May 20, 2024: Additional Shows Added to Tour Due to Demand

On May 20, 2024, Pollstar announced that nine additional shows were added to Justin Timberlake's Forget Tomorrow World Tour due to "overwhelming demand", with over 1 million tickets already sold.

June 18, 2024: Arrest for DWI

Shortly after midnight on June 18, 2024, Justin Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor, New York, for driving while intoxicated (DWI). He was charged with one count of DWI and issued two citations. He was released nine hours later following his first arraignment.

June 21, 2024: Timberlake addresses arrest at Chicago concert

On June 21, 2024, at a concert in Chicago, Justin Timberlake addressed his recent arrest, acknowledging the challenges he faced and expressing gratitude for the continued support from his fans.

June 22, 2024: Hotel Bartender Testimony

On June 22, 2024, bartender employees at the hotel where Justin Timberlake was staying before his DWI arrest confirmed that he only had one martini while at the hotel bar. However, the arresting officer's report indicated signs of intoxication.

July 26, 2024: Scheduled Court Return

Justin Timberlake was scheduled to return to court on July 26, 2024, following his arrest for driving while intoxicated on June 18, 2024.

2024: Timberlake's 2024 DWI arrest

In 2024 Justin Timberlake had a DWI arrest

July 2025: Timberlake Reveals Lyme Disease Diagnosis

In July 2025, at the end of his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, Justin Timberlake revealed his diagnosis of Lyme disease via an Instagram post. He shared his initial shock and the challenges he faced performing with nerve pain, fatigue, and sickness, but ultimately decided to continue touring.

January 2026: Tribute to Pharrell Williams

In January 2026, Justin Timberlake performed at the Recording Academy Honours Presented by the Black Music Collective in tribute to Pharrell Williams, who received the Dr. Dre Global Music Icon Award. Timberlake performed his Williams-produced singles "Señorita", "Rock Your Body", and "Like I Love You".

March 2026: Release of body camera footage

In March 2026 the Sag Harbor Police Department released the body camera footage from Justin Timberlake's DWI arrest. The reported exchange between Timberlake and the arresting officer during the stop was not on the released footage.