Lionel Richie undergoes heart procedure, cancels three upcoming tour dates

Lionel Richie, aged 77, was hospitalized for an atrial fibrillation ablation, a procedure that creates small scar tissue to correct irregular heart rhythms. Medical staff reported the operation went smoothly, and Richie is expected to take a brief hiatus before returning to the stage. The latest health issue forced the cancellation of three upcoming tour stops: San Francisco, Chicago, and Columbus.

During an Aug. 29 concert in St. Louis, he was seen sitting on a chair while performing and later advised the audience to stay hydrated with electrolytes. Earlier, a June hospital visit ended a show in St. Paul after he felt dizzy. Richie expressed gratitude to fans via Instagram, saying he was recovering well.