Lionel Richie, 77, was hospitalised in intensive care after performing in St Louis on August 29, 2026, reportedly due to dehydration [1, 2, 3]. During the concert, Richie asked for a chair and performed the closing song "All Night Long" while seated, indicating he was unwell [1, 2, 3]. TMZ first reported his hospitalisation on August 31, with multiple outlets confirming on September 1 that he remained in ICU receiving treatment [1, 2, 3].
Richie acknowledged his health issues on tour, telling reporters, "Some things have been happening on this tour that kind of shook me up a little bit, because I couldn’t figure out what the hell was going on. I went back to the doctor, and he said, ‘You are suffering from dehydration’" [2]. His health challenges had begun earlier in June, when he experienced dizziness and performed seated during a concert in Saint Paul, Minnesota on June 24 [1, 2, 3]. Following that episode, Richie postponed shows in Chicago and Columbus before returning to the stage in Pittsburgh on June 30 [1, 2, 3].
He reassured fans on July 4 with an Instagram post saying, "Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love. I'm doing well, and I'm grateful for all of you" [1, 3].
Other tour members also faced health setbacks; Earth, Wind & Fire drummer John Paris had a medical emergency that caused some rescheduling [2].
Richie’s next scheduled appearance is a rescheduled concert in San Francisco on September 26, 2026 [1, 2]. He also remains slated to perform King of Hearts shows in Las Vegas in October and November 2026 [3].
