Entertainment · November 8, 2026
Justin Timberlake Reveals 'What Goes Around… Comes Around' Is Not About Britney Spears
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Justin Timberlake has addressed long-standing speculation regarding his 2006 single "What Goes Around… Comes Around." During an interview with Complex's 'Re-Rank' show, Timberlake stated that the track was not inspired by his past relationship with Britney Spears, despite nearly two decades of rumors suggesting it was a sequel to his 2002 song "Cry Me a River." Timberlake clarified that the song was based on the personal experience of a friend who was going through a breakup at the time.
Read the original coverage
- Us WeeklyCelebrity
Justin Timberlake Addresses Years-Long Speculation ‘What Goes Around’ Song Is About Ex Britney Spears
Read at Us Weekly ↗ - Rolling StoneMainstream
Justin Timberlake Reveals 'What Goes Around… Comes Around' Is Not About Britney Spears
Read at Rolling Stone ↗ - TMZTabloid
Justin Timberlake Reveals Britney Spears Did Not Inspire 'What Goes Around… Comes Around'
Read at TMZ ↗ - New York PostTabloid
Justin Timberlake finally reveals if ‘What Goes Around… Comes Around’ is about ex Britney Spears — a full 20 years later
Read at New York Post ↗
Reported by multiple outlets
- Justin Timberlake appeared on Complex's 'Re-Rank' show to discuss his music.
- Timberlake stated that 'What Goes Around… Comes Around' is not about Britney Spears.
- The song was released in 2006 as part of the FutureSex/LoveSounds album.
- Timberlake and Spears split in 2002.
- Timberlake claimed the song was based on a friend's personal story.
Reported by only some outlets
- Timberlake requested permission from his friend to write the song.
- The interview was released or published around November 5-8.
- Timberlake was 45 years old at the time of the interview.
Confirmed
- Justin Timberlake stated 'What Goes Around… Comes Around' is not about Britney Spears.
- Timberlake attributed the song's inspiration to a friend's breakup.
- The interview took place on the Complex show 'Re-Rank'.
Reported
- Timberlake asked the friend for permission to write the song. (Rolling Stone)
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