Lionel Richie Undergoes AFib Procedure, Cancels Three Shows But Promises Swift Return
Lionel Richie’s representative confirmed the singer had a common procedure for Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) this week, leading to the cancellation of his next three performances. He is expected to make a swift return to the stage.

- Home - Music - News
Sep 22, 2026 8:45am PT
Lionel Richie Undergoes Heart Procedure, ‘Will Be Back on Stage Soon’ After Canceling Next Three Shows
By Chris Willman
Plus Icon
Chris Willman
Senior Music Writer and Chief Music Critic
ChrisWillman
Latest
- Lionel Richie Undergoes Heart Procedure, ‘Will Be Back on Stage Soon’ After Canceling Next Three Shows 9 minutes ago
- Taylor Swift to Be Honored at 2026 MTV VMAs With Inaugural Artist-Director Award 24 hours ago
- Edward Morris, Nashville Music Editor and Columnist Who Steered Billboard’s Country Coverage, Dies at 90 2 days ago
See All
- - - - - -
- - - - - - -
Lionel Richie will miss at least a few concert dates after being hospitalized this week and undergoing a procedure to treat atrial fibrillation, the singer’s rep says.
“Lionel underwent a common procedure for Atrial fibrillation (AFib),” Richie’s representative said in a statement given to Variety . “The doctor said everything went perfectly… Lionel is doing great but will take some time off and will be back on stage soon.”
Related Stories
Ryan Reynolds Praises ‘The Odyssey’ After Passing ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ to Become Biggest R-Rated Movie Ever: ‘Christopher Nolan Literally Breathes The Rarest Air on Earth’
_Originally reported by [Variety Music](https://variety.com/2026/music/news/lionel-richie-heart-procedure-cancels-concerts-1236872245/)._
Comments
Loading comments…
