Justin Timberlake's Tour Faces Crisis Amid DWI Arrest, Ticket Prices Plunge
Justin Timberlake's highly anticipated Forget Tomorrow World Tour has hit a rough patch following his recent arrest for driving while intoxicated (DWI) in New York. The legal troubles have significantly impacted ticket sales, leading to a sharp drop in prices, with some tickets now selling for under $16.
The "Cry Me A River" singer, who embarked on his first tour in five years, has seen a notable decline in ticket sales across various U.S. venues. Despite efforts to boost attendance by reducing ticket prices, many large venues remain far from sold out. For example, tickets for Timberlake's July 4 performance at Hersheypark Stadium in Pennsylvania are available for as low as $16.50. Additionally, midfield seats are being sold for just $40 on platforms like X's Under Face Value.
While the U.S. leg of the tour struggles, the situation appears more optimistic in the UK, where limited tickets remain for Timberlake's first O2 Arena show, and price reductions have not been necessary. However, the overall tour has been marred by underwhelming commercial performance and insider concerns regarding Timberlake's latest album, Everything I Thought I Was, and his wellbeing.
The debut single from Timberlake's sixth album, "Selfish," released in January 2024, managed to reach only number 19 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lackluster performance has added to the pressure Timberlake feels to compete with other touring giants like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift. An insider revealed to The Sun, "Timberlake's friends want him to take another extended break from music to focus on his health and wellbeing."
Adding to the turmoil, Timberlake unexpectedly canceled his July 8 show in Columbia, South Carolina, leaving fans disappointed and puzzled. Ticketmaster issued a brief statement, "Unfortunately, the event organizer has had to cancel your event."
The arrest, which took place shortly after midnight on Tuesday, saw Timberlake being pulled over for failing to obey a stop sign and veering into a different lane. Police reported that the former NSYNC star exhibited signs of alcohol consumption and refused to take a breathalyzer test. Following his detention, Timberlake expressed regret to law enforcement officers and is scheduled to appear in court on July 26, coinciding with the start of his European tour in Poland.
Jessica Biel, Timberlake's wife, is reportedly mortified by the incident. An insider told the Daily Mail, "[Timberlake] is disappointed but he is her husband so she is by his side and will have his back through all of it." Biel is hopeful that this incident serves as a wake-up call for Timberlake to curb his drinking and avoid similar situations in the future.
The fallout from Timberlake's DWI arrest has cast a shadow over his tour, with industry insiders expressing concern about its viability. The sharp decline in ticket prices and the cancellation of shows indicate significant challenges ahead. As Timberlake navigates these troubled waters, his ability to address both his personal issues and professional commitments will be critical.
Despite the setbacks, Timberlake's fanbase remains loyal, and many hope that he can overcome these challenges and continue to deliver memorable performances. The tour's success now hinges on Timberlake's response to these events and his efforts to reconnect with his audience.