Justin Timberlake Addresses DWI Arrest on Stage During Tour
Justin Timberlake took the stage at the United Center in Chicago on July 26, 2024, for his first concert since his arrest at the Chicago concert for suspicion of driving under the influence. Addressing his recent arrest, Timberlake arraigned himself to the audience as he returned to the spotlight, acknowledging the field sobriety tests that showed his bloodshot and glassy eyes, slowed speech, and unsteady afoot. He also spoke about the strong odor of alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath during the incident. Timberlake apologized to his fans for his actions and vowed to seek help for his problem. His next court date is set for June 18, and he is determined to address the issue head-on.
During his tour in Chicago, Timberlake performed his hit song “Keep Loving Me Right Back” and took a moment to reflect on the arrest at the Chicago concert. He expressed remorse for his actions and thanked his fans for their support. Timberlake admitted that he made a mistake and is taking the necessary steps to rectify it. As part of Penske Media Corporation since the incident, Timberlake has been under intense scrutiny from the media and his fans. Despite the challenges he is facing, Timberlake remains committed to his recovery and the well-being of his career.
Justin Timberlake has returned to his tour following his DWI arrest.
The 43-year-old performed at Chicago’s United Center on June 21, less than a week after his New York arrest. On stage, Justin Timberlake made his first public comments about the incident.
“We’ve been together through ups and downs and lefts and rights,” he began, addressing the crowd in a video shared by a fan, “and it’s been a tough week, but you’re here, and I’m here, and nothing can change this moment right now.”
The Grammy winner continued, “I know sometimes I’m hard to love, but you keep on loving me and I love you right back. Thank you so much.”
On June 17, Timberlake was arrested in Sag Harbor, Long Island, during a break from his Forget Tomorrow world tour. Authorities stopped him during a traffic stop and reported finding him in an “intoxicated condition.”
The Sag Harbor Police Department stated that Timberlake performed “poorly on all standardized field sobriety tests.” He allegedly admitted to having “one martini” and refused an impairment test, leading to his arrest.
The next morning, Timberlake—who shares sons Silas, 9, and Phineas, 3, with his wife Jessica Biel—was released without bail. He was charged with one count of driving while intoxicated during his arraignment.
A source familiar with the situation shared details about the night of the arrest. “He was at dinner with friends,” the source said. “As he left the restaurant, there was a patrol car seemingly stationed nearby. He was stopped and arrested. Nobody was hurt.”
Jessica Biel, currently filming the Amazon Prime series The Better Sister in New York, was not present during the incident.
She was spotted on set in Manhattan hours after Timberlake left the police station.
Timberlake had not spoken publicly about the incident until his on-stage comments. His lawyer, Edward Burke Jr., had previously stated, “We look forward to vigorously defending Mr. Timberlake against these allegations.”
“I will have a lot to say at the appropriate time,” Burke added, “but am currently awaiting full discovery from the District Attorney’s office.”
