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Introduction
Alan Jackson’s revelation about his battle with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease in 2021 brought a deeply personal and previously hidden aspect of his life into the public eye. He shared that he had been living with the condition for over a decade prior to his announcement, having been diagnosed around 2011.
Here’s a breakdown of how CMT has impacted Alan Jackson:
What is Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) Disease?
- CMT is a group of inherited neurological disorders that affect the peripheral nerves—those outside the brain and spinal cord, primarily in the arms and legs.
- It causes nerve damage, leading to muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and difficulties with movement.
- The condition is progressive, meaning it worsens over time, and there is currently no cure.
- Symptoms often begin in the feet and legs, causing issues like high arches, hammertoes, muscle weakness, and balance problems. Over time, it can spread to the hands and arms.
- While it can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, it’s generally not life-threatening.
Alan Jackson’s Experience and Public Announcement:
- Jackson inherited CMT from his late father, and his paternal grandmother and an older sister also had the condition.
- He publicly revealed his diagnosis during an interview on the “Today” show in September 2021.
- He admitted that the disease had been progressively affecting his balance and mobility, making him “stumble around on stage” and feel “uncomfortable” even in front of the microphone.
- His decision to go public was partly a relief, as he had been self-conscious about his increasing unsteadiness during performances and didn’t want fans to misinterpret it. “I just want people to know that’s why I look like I do, if they’re wondering,” he explained. He also stated, “It’s not going to kill me. It’s not deadly. But it’s related [to] muscular dystrophy and Parkinson’s disease.”
- His announcement resonated deeply within the CMT community, as it brought much-needed awareness to a condition often described as “the most common neurological disorder you’ve never heard of.”
Impact on His Music Career and Touring:
- CMT has significantly affected Jackson’s ability to perform live. While he continued to tour for years after his diagnosis, the physical demands became increasingly challenging.
- He has been on a “Last Call: One More for the Road Tour” since 2022, which he has hinted will be his final major touring effort. He’s been observed sitting on a stool during some performances to manage his balance.
- He expressed that he wants to “call it quits before I’m unable to do the job like I want to,” indicating his desire to maintain a high level of performance for his fans.
- In May 2025, he announced that his recent Milwaukee show was likely his “last road show” of his career, with plans for a “big finale show” in Nashville next summer (2026) to conclude his touring journey where it all began.
- Despite the physical limitations, Jackson has emphasized that he doesn’t plan to stop creating music. The creative aspect “jumps out every now and then,” suggesting he may still record new material.
- He has used his platform to raise awareness and funds for CMT research, donating a portion of ticket sales from his “Last Call” tour to the CMT Research Foundation. This generosity is often matched by other donors, amplifying the impact.
Alan Jackson’s openness about his CMT diagnosis has not only provided insight into the challenges he faces but has also served as a powerful source of inspiration and advocacy for others living with the condition. His dedication to his craft, even amidst personal struggles, further solidifies his legacy as a true country music icon.
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