Most Talked-About Controversies Linked to Justin Timberlake

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

Justin Timberlake, often called the "Prince of Pop", is a highly successful American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, and dancer. He is recognized as one of the best-selling music artists ever. Timberlake's accolades include ten Grammy Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, and numerous other prestigious awards, solidifying his impact on the entertainment industry. Billboard recognized him as one of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century.

Sections (7)

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

2000: Britney Spears' Pregnancy and Abortion

In late 2000, during Justin Timberlake's relationship with Britney Spears, Spears became pregnant and had an abortion after Timberlake said they were not prepared for parenthood.

2002: Comments on Relationship with Britney Spears

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

February 2004: Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show Controversy

In February 2004, during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, Justin Timberlake performed with Janet Jackson. The performance ended with Timberlake tearing off part of Jackson's costume, briefly exposing her breast, leading to widespread controversy and the term "wardrobe malfunction" entering pop culture. Both artists were threatened with exclusion from the 2004 Grammy Awards unless they apologized.

2016: Voting Booth Selfie Controversy

In 2016, Justin Timberlake shared a selfie inside a voting booth on Instagram during the presidential election, which was an illegal act at the time, leading to a bill in Tennessee allowing photos in voting poll stations with some exceptions.

2018: Halftime Show Production

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.

2023: Spears' Memoir: The Woman in Me

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