Lionel Richie hospitalised in ICU after concert
By Katemarthason Okudo, September 1, 2026American singer Lionel Richie has been rushed to the ICU after taking himself to hospital over the weekend following his August 29 concert in St Louis, Missouri.
The 77-year-old singer reportedly sought medical attention after completing his performance while seated. Multiple outlets reported that Richie was admitted to the intensive care unit for tests, with doctors looking into possible slight dehydration.
The reports follow a dizzy spell Richie experienced during a concert in June, which forced him to cut the show short.
Richie performs while seated
During his St Louis concert, Richie appeared to experience difficulties towards the end of the show.
As he performed the final song, All Night Long, the singer motioned to his crew for a seat to be brought to him. He then completed the performance while sitting down, according to video from the event.
Richie had earlier spoken to the audience about health issues he had experienced during his tour, explaining that he had returned to a doctor after the dizzy spell in June.
“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,” Richie told the crowd.
He went on to explain what doctors had told him after seeking medical advice. “I went back to the doctor, and he said, ‘You are suffering from dehydration,’” Richie said.
Singer takes fluids on stage
While discussing his health with the audience, Richie was seen drinking a red electrolyte drink. The drink was captured on video by The St Louis American as the Grammy-winning singer continued with his performance.
Richie also joked about the taste of the drink while explaining why he was taking it. “I’m telling you, this stuff is nasty, but it works,” he told the audience.
Richie was admitted to hospital to undergo tests, with sources saying doctors were checking whether dehydration was behind his condition.
Richie returned to performing after dizzy spell
The latest health concerns come months after Richie experienced the dizzy spell in June.
Despite the incident, the singer returned to the stage for the June 30 and July 1 dates of his Sing a Song All Night Long Tour, where he performed alongside Earth, Wind & Fire.
He later thanked fans for the messages and support he received following the health scare. “Thank you for every message, every kind word, and for all your love,” Richie wrote. “I’m doing well, and I’m grateful for all of you.”
Richie has continued performing as part of his tour, with his St Louis appearance coming shortly before his reported hospital admission.
The singer is also known for his long-running career in music, with hits including Hello and All Night Long. He currently serves as a judge on American Idol. For now, the singer’s reported hospital visit has brought renewed attention to his health as he continues his music career and performances.