Lionel Richie undergoes heart procedure for atrial fibrillation

On 22 September 2026, a representative for Lionel Richie said the singer had undergone a common procedure to treat atrial fibrillation, or Afib, an irregular heart rhythm. The statement said the doctor reported that everything went perfectly.

The representative added that Richie would take some time off to recover and would be back on stage soon. Several dates on his current tour with Earth, Wind & Fire were cancelled as a result, with US media reporting that shows in San Francisco, Chicago and Columbus were affected. His Las Vegas residency at the Encore Theater was reported to be going ahead as planned, starting on 14 October.

The news followed earlier health scares during the tour. In June, Richie told a crowd he felt dizzy and strange and cut a set short. The statement did not specify the exact technique used, though such rhythm problems are often treated with minimally invasive procedures. The announcement mattered because it explained the interrupted touring schedule and set expectations for his return to live performance.