On June 22, during a stop at Chicago’s United Center for his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, Justin Timberlake took a poignant moment to thank his fans amidst a turbulent week following his recent arrest for driving while intoxicated in Sag Harbor, New York.
Addressing a packed arena, Timberlake, 43, expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the audience, many of whom have been supporting him for nearly three decades. “This [tour] is just something that keeps watching over me, more so on this tour than any other,” Timberlake said. “And that’s that mostly all of us here in this room tonight, in this arena tonight, have grown up together. So many of you come up to me and say, ‘I grew up with you, man.'”
The Grammy winner’s touching remarks came five days after his DWI arrest on June 18. Timberlake was pulled over in the Hamptons for failing to stop at a posted stop sign and for not staying in his lane. He was subsequently found to be under the influence and arrested, spending the night in custody before his release the next morning.
Despite the legal troubles, Timberlake focused on the positive, emphasizing the bond he shares with his fans. “I want each and every one of you to know I’ve grown up with you,” he added. “You have been such a big and beautiful part of my life and sometimes I can’t find the words to show my gratitude that you guys just keep riding with me and riding with me.”
During the Saturday concert, Timberlake reiterated his dedication to his supporters, saying, “You made my life so special. And tonight in Chicago, you have made us feel loved.”
The singer’s Friday show in the same venue marked his first performance since the incident, where he candidly acknowledged the difficult week. “It’s been a tough week,” he said before launching into his 2024 hit “Selfish.” Timberlake reassured his fans, “I know sometimes I’m hard to love but you keep on loving me and I love you right back.”
As Timberlake continues his tour, his legal team, led by attorney Edward Burke Jr., prepares to address the charges. Burke has stated that Timberlake plans to vigorously defend himself against the allegations.
For now, Timberlake remains focused on his music and the fans who have stood by him through thick and thin, demonstrating that, despite setbacks, he remains committed to his craft and grateful for the unwavering support of his audience.
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