Singer Lionel Richie has been hospitalized in an intensive care unit after becoming unwell following a concert in Missouri. Richie sought medical attention at a St. Louis hospital after performing Saturday night at The Muny in Forest Park, according to TMZ. He reportedly went to the hospital for precautionary testing.
Sources close to Richie told the outlet that he remained in the ICU as of Monday afternoon while doctors evaluated him for “possible dehydration,” according to UNILAD. GB News reported that people close to the singer said he was hoping to be released from the hospital as early as Tuesday.
Lionel Richie appeared to be in great spirits as he performed before a packed crowd in St. Louis, with photos from the evening showing the singer smiling, playing the piano and confidently commanding the stage. However, footage from the final moments of the concert captured a more concerning scene.
Near the end of Richie’s performance, audience members told PEOPLE that the singer appeared to be struggling.
While performing “All Night Long,” Richie seemed to have difficulty and turned toward the side of the stage, appearing to signal for assistance. A crew member soon brought out a chair, and Richie eventually sat down while continuing to sing. Just hours later, the 77-year-old singer was hospitalized.
Lionel Richie’s health
The incident in Missouri is not the first health-related interruption Richie has experienced during his current summer tour.
In late June, Richie stopped a concert in St. Paul, Minnesota, after telling the audience he was feeling “dizzy” and “strange” while performing “Dancing on the Ceiling,” according to UNILAD. Paramedics later met the singer backstage and transported him to a nearby hospital by ambulance as a precaution.
Following medical advice, Richie postponed his next two scheduled tour appearances. He returned to the stage several days later in Pittsburgh, with his team later explaining that the earlier episode had been caused by acute dehydration and exhaustion.
As fans await further updates on Richie’s condition, messages of support have begun pouring in online. Many are also watching closely for news about his recovery and whether his upcoming tour dates will be affected.