Lionel Richie Reportedly Hospitalized For Third Time Since June As Heart Issues Force More Tour Cancellations

Lionel Richie has been hospitalized for the third time since June due to ongoing heart issues.

Sources informed TMZ that the music artist was admitted for atrial fibrillation, or AFib. Doctors planned to address the irregular heartbeat with a minimally invasive ablation procedure.

Richie’s representative later confirmed the procedure to Billboard, stating that the outcome was positive. “The doctor said everything went perfectly,” the representative noted. “Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon.”

This health concern has also impacted his “Sing a Song All Night Long Tour” with Earth, Wind & Fire, which commenced on June 24 at Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota. The next three shows in San Francisco, Chicago, and Columbus, Ohio, have been canceled, according to TMZ.

🚨 Lionel Richie hospitalized again amid ongoing heart issues; 3 shows canceled.

Exclusive: https://t.co/CXGXhVUx35 pic.twitter.com/YhqnVJnnVt

— TMZ (@TMZ) September 22, 2026

This hospitalization occurred shortly after Richie was discharged from a three-day stay in the hospital following his performance in St. Louis. Witnesses reported that he struggled near the end of that show and requested a chair while concluding the night with “All Night Long.” He later admitted himself to a St. Louis hospital, where he spent time in the ICU for cardiac testing. After returning home, he was reportedly “doing great.”

Richie has encountered several health scares during his arena tour. Earlier this summer, during the opening night of his tour, the 77-year-old experienced dizziness while performing and left the stage early. He humorously mentioned, “When you’re feeling dizzy, sit your a** down.”

He was subsequently transported to the hospital by ambulance, leading to the postponement of two shows. Richie eventually returned to the stage in Pittsburgh, where he reassured concerned fans with lighthearted comments. “I had you worried there for a minute, huh?” he remarked. “You have no idea what I have been through in the last 24 hours, listening to my friends tell me their advice on what I should be doing.”

For now, Richie is focusing on his recovery, and fans are likely hoping for his healthy return to the stage.