Lionel Richie recently underwent a heart procedure to treat atrial fibrillation and is now recovering. The 77-year-old singer has now been hospitalized for the third time. Three of his tour dates with Earth, Wind & Fire have been canceled due to his hospitalization.
Lionel Richie is being treated for atrial fibrillation and undergoing an AFib ablation
According to sources who spoke to TMZ, Richie remains hospitalized while receiving treatment for AFib ablation, a condition that causes an irregular heartbeat. As per the outlet, it is a minimally invasive procedure that is not considered major. The procedure creates tiny scars in the heart. These scars block faulty electrical signals and help the heart maintain a normal rhythm.
As a result of his recent health issues, Richie has canceled the next three concerts on his tour with Earth, Wind & Fire. The canceled shows were scheduled for September 26 in San Francisco. Another show was set for September 30 in Chicago. The third concert was scheduled for October 2 in Columbus, Ohio.
This isn’t Richie’s first recent health scare. Last month, the four-time Grammy winner checked into a hospital as a precaution. He sought medical attention after performing at The Muny in Forest Park in St. Louis on August 29. Doctors admitted the American Idol judge to the ICU. He underwent cardiac tests during his three-day stay before doctors sent him home.
Then in June, he was rushed to a hospital after becoming ill during a performance in St. Paul, Minnesota. The singer said he began feeling “dizzy” and “strange” onstage. Following his hospitalization, the Truly singer canceled two concert dates in Chicago and Columbus, Ohio. The singer later put fans at ease by saying he was doing well and thanking them for their support via an Instagram post. He wrote, “Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love. I’m doing well, and I’m grateful for all of you.”
