The summer of 2026 was a tough one for Lionel Richie. He had a string of health issues that resulted in multiple hospitalizations. After an intensive care unit stay in St. Louis following a show at the Muny, Lionel went back home to Los Angeles and put a pause on his tour with Earth, Wind, & Fire. He had an atrial fibrillation ablation to treat an irregular heartbeat. The minimally invasive procedure helped to restore Lionel Richie’s heartbeat to a normal rhythm. But that won’t keep a good man down. We recently learned that Lionel Richie will join Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood in 2027 for the newest season of “American Idol.” Everything seems to be moving in the right direction.
Videos by InspireMore
Luke Bryan Shared Good News About Lionel Richie’s Health
During a recent appearance on “Good Morning America,” Luke Bryan shared a happy update about his buddy Lionel Richie’s health. He said that he didn’t want to bother Lionel during his healing, but needed to be sure that he was OK.
“He’s doing well. I talked to him,” Luke said. “I didn’t want to call him and bug him. I called him, said, ‘I love you.’ And then he called me back. He was like, ‘Man, I’m just telling you I’m alright.’ So it was good for him to call me.”
Just before his heart procedure, photographers snapped photos of Lionel out in Los Angeles and looking fantastic. We can all use a little rest and relaxation from time to time. Hopefully by the new year, Lionel will be as good as new and ready for a fun season of
“American Idol.”
This story’s featured image is by Eric McCandless/Disney via Getty Images
Want to be happier in just 5 minutes a day? Sign up for Morning Smile and join over 455,000+ people who start each day with good news.
