The summer of 2026 was not an easy one for Lionel Richie. His tour with Earth, Wind, & Fire landed him in the hospital multiple times. Following a show in St. Louis, the “Hello” singer checked himself into the intensive care unit on August 29. Fans recently learned that Lionel had a heart procedure to treat atrial fibrillation. He cancelled multiple upcoming shows, and fans worried that this could be the end of an era. But on September 24, Lionel Richie gave fans a very welcome surprise update via a Luke Bryan show in Nashville.
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Lionel Richie Shared an Update Via Video
Lionel Richie joined Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan on stage in a video where he shared an update with the audience.
“Some of my greatest friendships have started right here in Nashville, Tennessee. That includes you, Carrie and Luke. Do you wanna share our secret?” Lionel asked.
“We’re coming back for the 25th season of American Idol!” Luke Bryan shared.
Fans loved seeing Lionel, Carrie, and Luke together and cheered loudly, knowing that the judges all plan to get back to work for Season 25 of “American Idol.” They immediately flooded social media with gratitude.
“The best of the best,” a fan wrote. “Sitting here watching reruns, looking forward to the upcoming season.
The biggest take away from the update for many fans is that Lionel Richie will be back. They want to be sure that he’s feeling well and protected by Carrie and Luke.
“Make sure yall do everything to make Lionel feel comfortable as well as the other judges,” a fan wrote.
“Lionel is coming back!!! God bless you @lionelrichie,” another person added. “Love you.”
It might be time to give Lionel the bubble wrap treatment. “Can’t wait! Protect Lionel at all costs,” a fan shared.
“American Idol” returns to ABC in 2027.
This story’s featured image Scott Legato/Getty Images
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