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Introduction
Alan Jackson, the beloved country music icon, has been publicly battling Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a genetic neurological disorder that affects motor and sensory nerves, particularly in the arms and legs. First diagnosed around 2011, Jackson went public with his condition in 2021, when the symptoms—especially mobility and balance issues—became difficult to conceal during live performances.
CMT is not fatal, but it is progressive. Over time, it can lead to increasing muscle weakness, loss of sensation, and difficulty with coordination and walking. Alan Jackson has emphasized that while CMT is “not going to kill me … it isn’t deadly,” it has begun to impact how comfortably he can perform, especially on stage.
Because of his health struggles, Jackson has made the difficult decision to retire from touring. His “Last Call: One More for the Road” tour, which extended into 2025, was announced as his final major road show. The progression of symptoms—including trouble balancing in front of a large audience and navigating the stage—was cited as among the reasons for stepping back from such physically demanding performances.
In May 2025, Jackson made a poignant appearance at the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, where despite his health challenges, he performed and accepted a Lifetime Achievement Award. He has expressed gratitude toward his wife, Denise, his family, and his fans for their support through this journey.
So, is Alan Jackson’s condition “critical”? Based on verified information, his illness is serious and significantly affecting his ability to tour, but it is not life-threatening. He continues to create and share music and remains deeply connected to his legacy. Jackson’s decision to reduce touring is less about an emergency, more about managing his health with dignity and preserving what he can of his performance quality and well-being. If you like, I can pull together the very latest updates (as of today) to see if anything has changed recently.
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