Lionel Richie is set to return to the American Idol judging panel for the show’s 25th season, keeping the line-up of Richie, Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood intact.
Bryan revealed the news during his Nashville concert on Thursday, September 24, confirming that Richie will once again take his place alongside the country star and Underwood. Ryan Seacrest is also returning as presenter.
The new season will be the third consecutive year featuring the trio together, following Underwood’s arrival as a judge.
Richie’s television comeback comes shortly after a health setback that temporarily took him away from his live performances.
The 77-year-old singer recently underwent a procedure for atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib, a condition involving an irregular heartbeat. His representative said the treatment went well and that Richie would spend some time recovering before returning to the stage.
His health has also affected his recent touring schedule.
During a June performance in St Paul, Minnesota, Richie became dizzy and was unable to continue the show as planned. Another incident occurred in St Louis in August, when he appeared to struggle while performing “All Night Long” and was seen asking for a chair before receiving medical attention.
The episodes resulted in changes to his touring commitments, but his representative said Richie is recovering.
His confirmation for American Idol means the music icon will return to the programme despite the recent interruption to his performance schedule, with the new season bringing the three judges back together for another search for America’s next singing talent.
