Country music legend Alan Jackson has revealed that his time on stage is drawing to a close as he battles Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease, a hereditary neurological disorder that he was diagnosed with over a decade ago. Now 66, the Grammy-winning artist says the effects of the disease are taking their toll, and while he’s not ready to walk away just yet, he knows the end of his performing career is near.
In a recent update to fans, Jackson shared how the progression of CMT has made it increasingly difficult to perform. “I’ve been living with this for years,” he said, “but it’s been telling on me more and more. It’s getting harder to do what I love, and I know I don’t have much time left on that stage.”
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease affects the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness, balance issues, and difficulty walking. It doesn’t affect lifespan, but for a live performer like Jackson, the symptoms directly interfere with his ability to deliver the kind of high-energy, heartfelt shows fans have come to expect.
Despite the challenges, Jackson isn’t letting the disease define the end of his career. Instead, he’s choosing to go out with a bang—announcing plans for a massive “finale” show in Nashville set for 2026. “I owe it to the fans,” he said. “They’ve given me everything, and I want to give them one last big moment to remember.”
The concert, still in the planning stages, is expected to be a star-studded, emotional farewell to one of country music’s most respected voices. Jackson promises it will be a celebration of his decades-long career, filled with the timeless hits that made him a household name—songs like “Remember When,” “Chattahoochee,” and “Where Were You (When the World Stopped Turning).”
Fans and fellow artists have already begun pouring out support online, applauding Jackson’s transparency and strength in the face of his diagnosis. While the road ahead may be uncertain, one thing is clear: Alan Jackson intends to leave the stage on his own terms—with grace, gratitude, and one unforgettable show.
