PUBLISHED ONSeptember 27, 20268:42 AM
Lionel Richie is returning to his role as a judge on American Idol after recently undergoing a heart procedure.
The 77-year-old musician’s involvement in season 25 of the TV competition had been called into doubt following a representative for the singer confirming his health battle.
However, Lionel delighted fans by confirming he’ll be back on the judging panel alongside Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood.
He revealed the news by making a virtual appearance at Luke’s concert in Nashville, Tennessee, on Thursday (Sept 24), as he said: “Some of my greatest friendships have started right here in Nashville, Tennessee. That includes you, Carrie and Luke. Do you wanna share our secret?”
Luke, on stage with Carrie, then chimed in as he yelled excitedly: “We’re coming back for the 25th season of American Idol!”
The news was confirmed by network ABC on Instagram, as they wrote: “Guess who’s back. Carrie, Luke, Lionel and Ryan are returning for the 25th season of #AmericanIdol!”
Lionel and Luke have been judges on the programme since 2018, with Carrie joining the panel in 2025.
The new season of the show is set to return to screens in 2027, with Ryan Seacrest returning as host.
News of Lionel’s Idol return comes after his rep confirmed he’d undergone a “common procedure” for atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm, and said he’s now taking some time off before he resumes performing.
The spokesperson told People: “Lionel underwent a common procedure for atrial fibrillation. The doctor said everything went perfectly.
“Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon.”
Lionel was due to perform at concerts in San Francisco, Chicago and Columbus in the next two weeks, but those shows have now been cancelled as Lionel focuses on his recovery.
Meanwhile, Lionel checked himself into a medical facility in late August, after he started feeling unwell during a concert in St. Louis, Missouri.
The singer’s children, daughters Nicole and Sofia and son Miles, were reported to have been extremely worried about their dad and were encouraging him to slow down at the time.
Aeally want him to slow down because he means so much to them, he has always been there for them, he has been like a Super Dad
“They have worried that Lionel was working too hard with this new tour on the heels of eight seasons of American Idol, which is a super demanding job.”
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