Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Justin Timberlake

Controversies are a part of history. Explore the biggest scandals linked to Justin Timberlake.

Justin Timberlake, an American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and dancer, is recognized as the "Prince of Pop" and a highly influential figure in popular music. He is one of the best-selling music artists globally, with approximately 88 million records sold worldwide. His multifaceted career spans music and acting, solidifying his place in entertainment and pop culture.

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Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2002: Public Scrutiny over Timberlake's Comments about Britney Spears

Following the release of Framing Britney Spears, public attention was brought to old comments Justin Timberlake made in 2002 about his relationship with Britney Spears following their breakup, with some considering them to contain misogynistic rhetoric.

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2003: MTV Video Music Awards Kiss Incident

In 2003, Justin Timberlake was allegedly planning to "one-up" Britney Spears' and Madonna's kiss at the MTV Video Music Awards, leading to controversies around his actions at the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show.

February 2004: Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show Incident

In February 2004, during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, Justin Timberlake performed with Janet Jackson, where an incident occurred resulting in the brief exposure of Jackson's breast, leading to the term "wardrobe malfunction".

2016: Timberlake's Voting Booth Selfie Influences Tennessee Legislation

In 2016, Justin Timberlake's selfie inside a voting booth on Instagram influenced Senator Brian Kelsey to bring up a bill in Tennessee that would allow taking photos in voting poll stations, with some exceptions.

2018: Salli Frattini's Statement on Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show

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

June 18, 2024: Arrest for DWI in Sag Harbor

Shortly after midnight on June 18, 2024, Justin Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor, New York, for driving while intoxicated (DWI). He was also cited for running a stop sign and failure to keep in lane. He was released after arraignment.

June 21, 2024: Timberlake Addresses Arrest at Chicago Concert

Despite his recent arrest for DWI, on June 21, 2024 Justin Timberlake continued his tour and appeared to address the arrest during a concert in Chicago, speaking of "ups and downs" and the audience's continued love and support.

June 22, 2024: Bartender Confirms One Martini

On June 22, 2024, hotel bartender employees confirmed to People that Justin Timberlake only had one martini at the hotel bar before his DWI arrest.

September 11, 2024: Plea Deal Revealed

On September 11, 2024, it was revealed that Justin Timberlake would plead guilty to driving while impaired during his September 13 court appearance, with the DWI charge being dropped.

September 13, 2024: Timberlake pleads guilty to DWI and is sentenced

On September 13, 2024, Justin Timberlake pleaded guilty to a noncriminal driving while impaired traffic violation at the Sag Harbor Village Justice Courthouse. He was sentenced to a $500 fine, a $260 surcharge, 25 hours of community service, and was required to make a public safety announcement. His driver's license was also suspended due to his refusal to take a breathalyzer.