Lionel Richie Hospitalized Again as Doctors Treat Heart Condition — With Three Concerts Canceled While the American Idol Star Recovers
Lionel Richie is taking time away from the stage after undergoing a heart procedure, marking the latest health setback in what has already been a difficult year for the 77-year-old music legend.
The American Idol judge was hospitalized for the second time in a month after being treated for atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib.
A representative for Richie confirmed that the procedure went successfully and offered an encouraging update on his recovery.
“Lionel underwent a common procedure for Atrial fibrillation,” the representative told PEOPLE. “The doctor said everything went perfectly.”
The statement continued: “Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon.”
That recovery period has already affected Richie’s touring schedule, with three upcoming concerts alongside Earth, Wind & Fire canceled.
Richie was treated for atrial fibrillation
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AFib is an irregular and often rapid heart rhythm.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the condition can increase the risk of blood clots, stroke and heart failure. Some people experience symptoms including heart palpitations, dizziness, weakness or shortness of breath, while others may have no obvious symptoms.
Richie’s representative did not disclose the exact procedure he underwent.
Although one possibility for treating AFib is cardiac ablation, there has been no confirmation that this was the specific procedure Richie received.
An ablation can use heat, cold or high-energy electrical pulses to create tiny scars in targeted areas of the heart, helping block the faulty electrical signals responsible for abnormal rhythms.
For now, the most important update from Richie’s team is that the procedure went as planned and he is recovering.
His health problems began during a June concert
The latest hospitalization follows several concerning episodes earlier this year.
In June, Richie was performing in St. Paul, Minnesota, when he told the audience he was feeling dizzy.
During “Dancing on the Ceiling,” the singer sat down while performing.
He managed to continue for several more songs before the concert unexpectedly paused and Richie left the stage.
He did not return.
Following medical advice, Richie postponed several upcoming performances so he could focus on his health.
Weeks later, he reassured concerned fans with a message shared on social media on July 4.
“Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love,” Richie wrote. “I’m doing well, and I’m grateful for all of you.”
He eventually returned to performing, but another health scare followed.
A second episode led to an ICU stay
After Richie’s August 29 concert, he experienced another medical episode and was hospitalized.
Reports indicated that he remained in intensive care for several days while receiving treatment.
An update from PEOPLE subsequently said the singer had returned home and was “doing great.”
Now, only weeks later, confirmation of his AFib treatment has provided more clarity about the health problems that have disrupted his year.
While his representative’s update was positive, Richie is once again stepping away from touring to give himself time to recover.
Three concerts have been canceled
Richie’s medical procedure means fans in three cities will no longer see his planned shows with Earth, Wind & Fire.
The affected concerts were scheduled for September 26 in San Francisco, September 30 in Chicago and October 2 in Columbus.
According to his current schedule, Richie is next expected to perform on October 14 in Las Vegas.
His representative’s statement suggests the break is intended to be temporary, saying the singer plans to return to the stage soon.
For fans, that reassurance will be welcome after a year in which Richie has repeatedly been forced to put his health ahead of performing.
A difficult year for the American Idol judge
Richie’s latest hospitalization comes after decades spent as one of the most recognizable figures in popular music.
Alongside his extensive recording and touring career, he has introduced himself to another generation of viewers as a judge on American Idol.
But recent months have required the veteran performer to repeatedly step away from the stage.
First came the dizziness that abruptly ended his Minnesota concert. A second episode in August resulted in hospitalization and several days reportedly spent in intensive care.
Now doctors have treated him for AFib.
The encouraging news is that, according to his representative, the latest procedure was successful.
Richie will now take time to recover before attempting another return to performing — with his team making clear that getting him healthy comes before getting him back onstage.
