Lionel Richie is 77 years old and still one of the hardest-working performers in music, but his body is asking for a break. The singer was hospitalized again this month for a heart issue, and his rep confirmed he underwent a common procedure for Atrial fibrillation, or AFib. According to the rep, everything went perfectly and he’s doing great, but he’ll take some time off before returning to the stage. The next three dates on his tour with Earth, Wind&Fire have been canceled.
This marks his third hospitalization this year. Back in June, he became dizzy at his tour’s opening night in St. Paul and was hospitalized. Then in August, after a show in St. Louis, he spent three days in the hospital. Sources say his children, including Nicole, Sofia, and Miles, are worried he’s pushing himself too hard and want him to ease up, though they understand that performing is central to who he is.
It’s a conversation a lot of families end up having: when do you step in and ask someone you love to slow down, especially when the thing they love is the thing that made them who they are? For now, fans are sending well wishes and waiting for word on when he’ll be back. What’s your favorite Lionel Richie song of all time? Let us know in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.