Lionel Richie announces American Idol return after heart procedure

Lionel Richie has reassured fans by announcing his return to American Idol following a recent health scare and heart procedure.

The 77-year-old singer and songwriter revealed that he will return to the judging panel for the show’s 25th season alongside Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood.

Richie made the announcement during a virtual appearance at Bryan’s concert in Nashville on Thursday, September 24. During the appearance, he hinted at a special announcement before Bryan revealed that the trio would be returning for the milestone season.

The news was later confirmed by ABC, which announced that Richie, Bryan, Underwood and host Ryan Seacrest will all return for the upcoming season.

Richie and Bryan have served as American Idol judges since 2018. Underwood joined the judging panel last year after previously winning the competition in 2005.

The 25th season of the popular singing competition is scheduled to premiere in 2027, with Seacrest continuing as host.

Richie’s announcement comes shortly after he underwent treatment for a heart-related condition. Reports said the singer was hospitalised after experiencing cardiac issues and received treatment for atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, which causes an irregular heartbeat.

His treatment reportedly included an AFib ablation, a minimally invasive procedure used to treat abnormal heart rhythms.

Earlier this month, Richie was also taken to hospital after struggling to complete the final song of his concert in St Louis. He subsequently underwent medical tests related to his heart.

Despite the recent health concerns, Richie’s latest announcement marks his return to the television spotlight and confirms his involvement in the next season of American Idol.