To directly answer the question – Justin Timberlake is currently 42 years old. He was born on January 31, 1981, making him 42 as of 2024. But his age is only one small aspect of his decades-spanning career in music, acting, and business. Let‘s explore the captivating journey of this pop culture icon.
Introduction: From Boy Band to Solo Sensation
Before diving into Justin Timberlake‘s current age, it‘s helpful to understand his background. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Timberlake‘s musical talents were evident from a young age. His big break came in the 1990s as a member of the boy band *NSYNC. But Timberlake soon broke out as a solo artist, releasing smash hit albums like Justified and FutureSex/LoveSounds.
Fast forward to today in 2024, and Timberlake remains highly active in music and entertainment at the age of 42. He recently voiced a character in the animated film Trolls World Tour and released his album Man of the Woods in 2018.
So how has Timberlake stayed so relevant? What are the stand-out moments of his wide-ranging career? This article will explore those questions and more, giving insights into Timberlake‘s age, accomplishments, personal life, and lasting cultural impact.
Digging Into the Data: Timberlake By the Numbers
To quantify Timberlake‘s success, let‘s look at some key statistics:
*NSYNC sold over 70 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling boy bands of all time.
Timberlake has sold over 32 million albums solo, along with over 56 million digital tracks in the US alone.
He has won 10 Grammy Awards, 4 Emmy Awards, and many other accolades.
His 2006 album FutureSex/LoveSounds sold over 10 million copies globally.
On Billboard charts, Timberlake has achieved 27 top-10 singles, including 7 number-one hits.
His world tours have grossed over $457 million total.
He has over 60 million Instagram followers, displaying his massive popularity in the social media era.
These numbers only begin to capture Timberlake‘s tremendous commercial success across music, television, film, touring, and more. Now let‘s look closer at his journey.
Memphis Roots to Mickey Mouse Club
Justin Randall Timberlake was born January 31, 1981 in Memphis, Tennessee. His hometown and Baptist upbringing provided early country and gospel musical influences.
Showing talent from a young age, Timberlake first appeared on TV‘s Star Search at just 11 years old. He soon after joined The Mickey Mouse Club in 1993 alongside future stars like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Ryan Gosling.
*NSYNC Days: Teen Fame
Timberlake‘s big break came in 1995 when he was recruited to join the new boy band *NSYNC. The group shot to global fame, becoming immensely popular in the late 1990s/early 2000s.
Some of *NSYNC‘s biggest hits included:
- "Tearin‘ Up My Heart" – over 2 million copies sold in the US
- "Bye Bye Bye" – reached #1 on Billboard Hot 100
- "It‘s Gonna Be Me" – #1 on Hot 100 and UK charts
- "This I Promise You" – #5 Hot 100 peak
Timberlake stood out within the quintet for his smooth R&B-style vocals and magnetic stage presence. He also co-wrote several songs, foreshadowing his solo career. At the height of their fame, *NSYNC even starred in their own movie – On the Line.
Transition to Solo Superstardom
Even during his *NSYNC days, Timberlake collaborated on tracks with artists like Brian McKnight and Nelly Furtado, hinting at a solo future.
In 2002, he released his debut solo album Justified, selling over 7 million copies worldwide. Justified was heavily influenced by Michael Jackson and Prince, incorporating funk, R&B, and soul.
The album produced hit singles like:
- "Cry Me a River" – earned a Grammy, #3 on Hot 100
- "Rock Your Body" – #5 Hot 100 peak
- "Señorita" – nominated for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance
With Justified, Timberlake successfully pivoted from boy band member to mature solo artist.
His 2006 follow-up FutureSex/LoveSounds fully cemented him as a pop star powerhouse. Debuting at #1 on the Billboard charts, it generated huge hits like:
- "SexyBack" – spent 7 weeks at #1 on the Hot 100
- "My Love" – #1 Hot 100, Timberlake‘s second #1 solo single
- "What Goes Around…Comes Around" – #1 on Hot 100 Airplay
FutureSex/LoveSounds ultimately sold over 10 million copies worldwide. The album‘s fusion of rock, R&B, funk, and electronica underscored Timberlake‘s versatility and vision as a songwriter.
Acting: Comedy, Drama, and Animation
Beyond music, Timberlake pursued acting alongside his recording career. He often chooses both comedic and dramatic roles.
Major film appearances include:
- Sean Parker in The Social Network (2010)
- Will Salas in In Time (2011)
- Johnny in Friends with Benefits (2011)
- Variety of voices in Shrek the Third (2007)
- Branch in Trolls (2016) and Trolls World Tour (2020)
Timberlake has proven adept at both live-action and voice acting. His comedy chops are on display in stints hosting Saturday Night Live and appearing on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon.
World Tours and Live Performances
Timberlake is renowned for his live concerts and tours featuring intense dancing. Major solo tours include:
- Justified World Tour (2003-04) – $45 million gross
- FutureSex/LoveShow (2007) – $126.8 million
- Man of the Woods Tour (2018-19) – $226 million
During these visually-stunning concerts, Timberlake showcases his flawless choreography and command of the stage. Fans around the world flock to experience his high-energy sets and raw talent.
Even in his 40s during the Man of the Woods Tour, Timberlake continued to thrill crowds with the same smooth moves and vocals that electrified audiences back in his *NSYNC days. His stage presence remains unparalleled.
Collaborations and Guest Appearances
Throughout his career, Timberlake has collaborated with dozens of artists across various genres:
- Nelly Furtado – Promiscuous (2006)
- 50 Cent – Ayo Technology (2007)
- Madonna – 4 Minutes (2008)
- T.I. – Dead and Gone (2009)
- Rihanna – Rehab (2009)
- Chris Stapleton – Say Something (2018)
Timberlake also appeared on hits like Give It to Me by Timbaland and 3-Way (The Golden Rule) by The Lonely Island.
These collaborations showcase Timberlake‘s versatility and appeal across musical styles like pop, rap, R&B, and country.
Business Ventures: Fashion, Liquor, Tech
Beyond music and acting, Timberlake has embraced business opportunities:
- Co-founded fashion label William Rast in 2005
- Partial owner of Myspace social media platform
- Launched Sauza 901 tequila in 2009, sold in 2014 for over $50 million
- Early investor in Beats Electronics headphones, sold to Apple for $3 billion
Timberlake‘s business ventures demonstrate his savvy ability to invest in brands with mainstream appeal and growth potential.
Charity and Philanthropy
Giving back has always been important to Timberlake. He‘s been involved with:
- Justin Timberlake Foundation – supports music education
- Shriners Hospitals for Children
- PGA TOUR Charities
- Feeding America – raised $6 million during COVID
- Hurricane Katrina relief efforts
Timberlake routinely organizes charity golf tournaments and donations from touring/appearances. His philanthropic work improves education, health services, disaster relief, and more.
Marriage and Fatherhood
Timberlake met actress Jessica Biel in 2007, later marrying her in 2012. The couple has two sons:
- Silas Randall Timberlake – born April 2015
- Phineas Timberlake – born July 2020
Timberlake values family time out of the spotlight after a lifetime in the limelight. He calls fatherhood the most meaningful role of his life.
Though protective of their privacy, Timberlake occasionally shares photos of his kids and heartfelt tributes to wife Jessica.
Still Relevant in His 40s
As he entered his 40s, Timberlake faced questions about whether he could maintain his popularity long-term. But recent years have proven his staying power.
- Man of the Woods (2018) -explored Memphis influences with Americana feel
- Sang at Super Bowl LII halftime show in 2018
- Voice acting role in Trolls World Tour (2020)
- 2022 world tour displayed his undiminished live skills
On social media, Timberlake engages with fans by posting family photos, tour videos, backstage moments, and other insights.
His name still trends regularly on Twitter and Instagram as new generations discover his music. Timberlake‘s visibility and appeal shows no signs of fading.
Lasting Cultural Impact
What makes Timberlake so influential? His impact spans across music, film, fashion, and society:
- Pioneered new pop/R&B hybrid sounds and styles
- Imitated dance moves and fashion became mainstream trends
- Opened doors for crossover solo artists like Harry Styles
- Normalized male pop stars showing emotion and vulnerability
- Referenced in lyrics by Drake, Katy Perry, Nicki Minaj, and many more
From *NSYNC‘s formation to today, Timberlake has regularly left his mark on pop culture over 25+ years. Even in his 40s, his relevance remains steady.
In Summary: Timberlake at 42
So to answer once again – yes, Justin Timberlake is now 42 years old as of 2024. But his steady output of music and acting projects show no signs of slowing down.
Married with two kids, Timberlake seems content with the balance between career and family life. His decades of innovation continue influencing new generations of artists and fans.
By staying versatile yet authentic, Timberlake has cultivated rare longevity in the fickle world of entertainment. His journey reveals the work ethic and creative passion required to thrive at the highest levels for over two decades and counting.
