Lionel Richie returns to American Idol after health scares

Lionel Richie will return to the judges’ table for the 25th season of American Idol, despite a series of recent health concerns that forced the music legend to step away from performances.

The announcement was made by fellow judge Luke Bryan during a concert in Nashville, confirming that Richie will once again join Bryan and Carrie Underwood on the talent show alongside returning host Ryan Seacrest.

The upcoming season will mark the third consecutive year that Richie, Bryan and Underwood have served together as the show’s judging panel.

Richie’s return comes days after the 77-year-old singer was hospitalised for the third time since June following heart-related issues.

His representative confirmed that Richie underwent a procedure to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib), an irregular heart rhythm condition, adding that the procedure was successful and that the singer was recovering.

“Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon,” his representative said.

The health concerns had raised questions about Richie’s upcoming commitments after he experienced difficulties during recent tour performances.

Last month, the singer struggled to complete a concert in St. Louis, Missouri, after becoming visibly winded on stage while performing his hit song “All Night Long.”

Videos from the performance showed Richie asking for a chair before leaving the stage and later seeking medical attention.

It was his second major health-related incident during the tour, following an earlier episode in June when he experienced dizziness during a performance in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Despite the setbacks, Richie reassured fans that he was recovering and is expected to resume his “Lionel Richie: King of Hearts” residency in Las Vegas from October 14.

Meanwhile, American Idol has already begun preparations for its milestone 25th season, with auditions underway through the show’s “Idol Across America” virtual search.