Lionel Richie has returned to the spotlight with a major career announcement.
The 77-year-old American singer-songwriter and musician, who recently concerned fans with his shocking health-scare, announced that he is returning as American Idol judge alongside Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood following his recent heart procedure.
He shared the exciting news via a virtual appearance at Bryan’s Nashville concert on Thursday evening, September 24, stating, “Some of my greatest friendships have started right here in Nashville, Tennessee. That includes you, Carrie and Luke. Do you wanna share our secret?”
Bryan, who was on stage with Underwood, excitedly yelled, “We’re coming back for the 25th season of American Idol,” making the concertgoers jump with joy.
The update was later confirmed by ABC through their social media handle, as they announced, “Guess who’s back. Carrie, Luke, Lionel and Ryan are returning for the 25th season of #AmericanIdol!”
For those unaware, Lionel Richie and Luke Bryan have been judging American Idol since 2018, while Carrie Underwood joined the panel last year.
The new season of the show is set to return to screens in 2027, with Ryan Seacrest returning as host.
Lionel Richie undergoes heart procedure
The Stuck on You crooner’s exciting announcement came after he went a heart-related procedure recently.
According to the reports, Richie was admitted to the hospital for “heart issues,” and was “receiving treatment for atrial fibrillation, an irregular heartbeat.”
It was also shared that his treatment plan includes “AFib ablation,” which is not considered major.
An AFib ablation or Atrial fibrillation ablation is a minimally invasive procedure for the treatment of an irregular and often very fast heartbeat.
Prior to his latest hospitalization, the All Night Long singer was hospitalized earlier this month after he struggled through his final song during his St. Louis’ concert.
During his hospital stay, Richie underwent tests for “cardiac-related issues.”
