Renowned country music icon Alan Jackson recently shared some sobering news with his devoted fans. At 62 years old, the Grammy-winning artist has been diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a progressive nerve condition.

This diagnosis presents significant challenges for Jackson, affecting his balance and weakening his muscles, ultimately impacting his ability to grace the stage with his performances.

CMT disease is a hereditary condition inherited by Jackson from his father and grandmother, and his sister is also battling the illness. While CMT itself isn’t life-threatening, it can lead to complications such as Parkinson’s disease and muscular dystrophy.

Despite the setbacks caused by this diagnosis, Jackson remains optimistic about his future in the music industry. In a candid interview with TODAY show host Jenna Bush Hager, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to openly discuss his condition, viewing it as a «blessing.»

Rather than concealing his struggles, Jackson hopes to continue touring, albeit acknowledging the obstacles he may face.

Alan Jackson’s influence on country music is profound. With over 43.5 million albums sold in the United States alone, he ranks among the best-selling recording artists in history.

Last year, Jackson received the esteemed honor of being inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, a momentous occasion celebrated by fellow country music legends such as Loretta Lynn and Lee Ann Womack.

Despite her ongoing recovery from a recent stroke, Lynn made a special appearance at the induction ceremony, praising Jackson’s talent and resilience. She fondly remarked, «The first time I ever met Alan, he looked like a scared little boy. He hasn’t let me down. You’re going to be one of the greatest singers in country music.»