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 known as the "Prince of Pop." Billboard recognized him as a top male solo act and one of the greatest pop stars of the 21st century. He is among the best-selling music artists ever, with over 117 million records sold globally. His accolades include ten Grammy Awards, four Primetime Emmy Awards, three Brit Awards, nine Billboard Music Awards, the Contemporary Icon Award, and the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award.

Sections (7)

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

2002: Public scrutiny of Timberlake's comments about Britney Spears

In 2002, after the release of Framing Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake faced public scrutiny for comments he made describing his relationship with Britney Spears following their breakup, with some considering them misogynistic. This scrutiny led to a re-evaluation of his participation in the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show controversy and ultimately, a public apology.

February 2004: Super Bowl XXXVIII Halftime Show Controversy

In February 2004, during the Super Bowl XXXVIII halftime show, Justin Timberlake performed with Janet Jackson. At the end of the performance, Timberlake tore off a part of Jackson's costume, briefly exposing her breast which led to widespread controversy and the term "wardrobe malfunction".

2016: Selfie Inside Voting Booth Leads to Tennessee Bill

In 2016, Justin Timberlake's selfie inside a voting booth during the presidential election, initially an illegal act, influenced Senator Brian Kelsey of Germantown, Tennessee to introduce a bill allowing photos in voting poll stations with some exceptions. The bill was later approved by the Tennessee Senate.

2018: Statement from Salli Frattini regarding 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 in rehearsal to reveal Janet Jackson's skirt without nudity, but the idea was ultimately nixed. According to Frattini, Jackson's team pitched the idea to Timberlake prior to the show that led to Jackson's breast being exposed.

June 18, 2024: Timberlake Arrested 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) and released nine hours later. He was also cited for running a stop sign and failure to keep in lane, and refused a breathalyzer test.

June 21, 2024: Timberlake Addresses Arrest at Chicago Concert

On June 21, 2024, Justin Timberlake appeared to address his DWI arrest at a concert in Chicago, saying 'We've been through ups and downs and lefts and rights... It's been a tough week - but you're here, and I'm here...I know sometimes I'm hard to love, but you keep on loving me and I love you right back.'

June 22, 2024: Bartender Confirms Timberlake Only Had One Martini

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. One employee stated that 'If he was drinking more, it wasn't here.'

July 26, 2024: Timberlake's Scheduled Court Appearance

Justin Timberlake was scheduled to return to court on July 26, 2024, following his DWI arrest on June 18, 2024.

August 9, 2024: Timberlake's Scheduled Court Hearing

Justin Timberlake was scheduled to have another hearing on August 9, 2024, following his DWI arrest, though he was not required to attend.

September 11, 2024: Timberlake to Plead Guilty to Less Serious Offense

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

September 13, 2024: Timberlake pleads guilty to driving violation

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 with a $260 surcharge, 25 hours of community service, and required to make a public safety announcement. His driver's license was also suspended due to his refusal to take a breathalyzer.