Justin Timberlake admits to having a 'tough week' after arrest

Justin Timberlake admitted it's been "a tough week" after being charged with drunk driving.

Speaking to his fans at a concert in Chicago on Friday night, the singer also thanked them for continuing to support him.

The 43-year-old pop star was arrested in New York on Tuesday for obeying a stop sign and failing to stay on the right side of the road.

His lawyer said he looked forward to "vigorously defending" the singer.

During his first performance since the incident, Timberlake told the crowd : "It's been a tough week."

"I know sometimes I'm hard to love, but you continue to love me and I love you in return,” he added.

He also reminded fans that they have all been through “ups and downs, lefts and rights.”

The arrest took place in Sag Harbor in the Hamptons, a popular summer destination for Long Island celebrities.

When officers arrested him, Timberlake's eyes were "bloodshot and glassy" and a "strong odor of alcoholic beverage emanated from his breath," according to a charging document.

His speech was slowed and his scores on police sobriety tests were poor, the document states.

He also refused a breathalyzer test, the document adds.

"I drank a martini and followed my friends home," Timberlake reportedly told the officer who arrested him, according to the BBC's American partner, CBS News.

He was released without bail after being formally charged and is due to appear virtually in court July 26, the Suffolk County District Attorney's Office said.

Timberlake has previously spoken openly about seeking help for drug abuse excessive alcohol.

On Wednesday, his lawyer Edward Burke Jr told the PA Media news agency: "I look forward to vigorously defending M .Timberlake on these allegations. from the prosecutor's office."

Timberlake toured the United States to promote his sixth album, Everything I Thought It Was, and is expected to kick off the international tour next month, he will kick off with a two-night tour of Poland.

His scheduled court date coincides with the start of his world tour at the Tauron Arena of Krakow.

In New York State, penalties for drunk driving charges include up to one year in prison. , a fine of $1,000 (£786) and the suspension of a driver's license for at least six months.

Timberlake was scheduled to perform two shows in Chicago this weekend, followed by a show at Madison Square Garden in New York next Tuesday.

Former member of popular 90s boy band NSYNC, Timberlake is an actor, songwriter and one of the world's best-selling musical artists. The 10-time Grammy Award winner is also known for his roles in the films The Social Network and Friends With Benefits.

Timberlake is married to actress Jessica Biel, with whom he shares two children.