As NSYNC's 25th anniversary approaches, rumors of a reunion tour are generating significant buzz, but one key member appears to be missing in action. Justin Timberlake, who has been a crucial part of the iconic boy band, may not be joining his bandmates for the much-anticipated tour, leaving fans and fellow band members disheartened.

Chris Kirkpatrick, a co-founder of NSYNC, recently discussed the potential for a stadium tour next summer to mark the band's milestone anniversary. "We're all talking again as you've seen some of the stuff we've done together lately. We have two new songs, which is a lot different than the last 20 or so years that we haven't been together," Kirkpatrick told New York Living. Despite the excitement, he emphasized that nothing is set in stone yet. "When we know, you'll know," he added.

Kirkpatrick, now 52, expressed his personal longing for the group to reunite. "I'm doing the Pop 2000 now, which is basically me by myself without those guys, so I miss them. We're all buds. We're all good friends," he shared.

The band's recent reunion at the world premiere of "Deadpool & Wolverine" in Manhattan saw four of the five original members—Kirkpatrick, JC Chasez, Joey Fatone, and Lance Bass—come together. However, Timberlake was notably absent, currently immersed in his extensive 86-date "Forget Tomorrow World Tour" and gearing up for a performance at Poland's Tauron Arena in Kraków.

Reports from TMZ have suggested that Timberlake has been unresponsive to reunion tour proposals presented to him and his team four months ago. This silence has reportedly left his bandmates "disappointed" and uncertain about the future of the reunion. "[Bass] coordinated a meeting between [Kirkpatrick, Chasez, and Fatone] Monday in NYC to discuss the future of the band, and what it potentially looks like if they go forward without [Timberlake] ... should he opt out of this opportunity," the outlet reported.

Adding to the complexity, Timberlake's legal troubles are also making headlines. He is scheduled to appear in court this Friday to address charges related to driving while intoxicated and violations for disregarding a stop sign and failing to maintain his lane. These charges stem from his arrest for DWI on June 18 in Sag Harbor, New York.

Sony Music Entertainment, which has a vested interest in the band's extensive catalog, was also hoping for a significant push surrounding the 25th anniversary. The lack of a unified front from the band members, particularly Timberlake's absence, could potentially impact these plans.

Despite the uncertainty, the other members of NSYNC remain hopeful about the future. Their recent collaborative efforts and public appearances have reignited fan interest and nostalgia for the beloved boy band. The possibility of a reunion tour, even without Timberlake, still holds promise for fans eager to see the group perform together once more.

For now, NSYNC fans will have to wait and see if Timberlake's stance changes in the coming months. The band’s legacy, built on memorable hits and electrifying performances, continues to endure, and a reunion—if it happens—promises to be a momentous occasion for both the band and its dedicated fan base.