Fans concerned about Lionel Richie’s health got some reassuring news when the singer appeared in an video announcing he will return for the show’s upcoming 25th season.
The music competition announced Thursday, Sept. 24, all three current judges will be back. In a video posted to Instagram, Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan stood together on stage in Nashville while Richie appeared on a video screen.
“Do you want to share our secret?” Richie asked.
“We’re coming back for the 25th season of American Idol,” Bryan replied. Underwood added that longtime host Ryan Seacrest will return as well.
Related: Lionel Richie Undergoes Heart Procedure and Cancels Three Shows
The announcement came just days after Richie, 77, underwent a heart procedure to treat atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. On Tuesday, a representative for the singer told People the procedure went well.
“Lionel underwent a common procedure for atrial fibrillation (AFib),” the rep said. “The doctor said everything went perfectly.”
Still, the rep confirmed Richie would be taking time off before returning to the stage for his Sing A Song All Night Long Tour with Earth, Wind & Fire.
The “All Night Long” performer has faced a series of health setbacks in recent months, including hospital stays after performances in June and August.
Fans said they were relieved to see Richie included in the Idol announcement, though some still had questions.
“I’m glad Lionel’s health is going to allow him to continue,” one person wrote in the comments.
“So happy to see the legend on screen, wish him a speedy recovery. Thrilled to see all returning for the new season,” another fan shared.
But a third viewer wondered whether Richie had joined the announcement live or recorded his appearance earlier, writing: “Happy to have them all back, was Lionel live at the time of the announcement?”
The video did not make that clear. Richie has been a judge since ABC revived American Idol in 2018. Bryan joined the panel at the same time, while Underwood, who won the competition in 2005, joined the show as a judge for season 23.
The competition is currently holding auditions for up-and-coming singers born between June 2, 1997, and Feb. 15, 2012, according to a recent announcement.
Season 25 will bring a major change behind the scenes. As previously reported, the show is moving its production headquarters to Atlanta after 24 seasons in Los Angeles, where filming costs continue to rise.
The upcoming season is expected to premiere in 2027. An exact launch date will be announced later.
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