Lionel Richie returning as TV judge amid health battle

Lionel Richie is returning to his role as a judge on American Idol after recently undergoing a heart procedure.

The 77-year-old musician’s involvement in season 25 of the TV competition had been called into doubt following a representative for the singer confirming his health battle.

However, Richie delighted fans by confirming he’ll be back on the judging panel alongside Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood.

He revealed the news by making a virtual appearance at Bryan’s concert in Nashville, Tennessee on Thursday as he said: “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, on stage with Underwood, then chimed in as he yelled excitedly: “We’re coming back for the 25th season of American Idol!”

The news was confirmed by network ABC on Instagram, as they wrote: “Guess who’s back. Carrie, Luke, Lionel and Ryan are returning for the 25th season of #AmericanIdol!”

Richie and Bryan have been judges on the program since 2018, with Underwood joining the panel in 2025.

The new season of the show is set to return to screens in 2027, with Ryan Seacrest returning as host.

News of Richie’s Idol return comes after his rep confirmed he had undergone a “common procedure” for atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm, and said he is now taking some time off before he resumes performing.