Lionel Richie Makes First Public Appearance After Hospitalization
The iconic singer was seen dining out in Beverly Hills, flashing a double thumbs-up to onlookers.
Lionel Richie, 77, has been spotted in public for the first time since his recent hospitalization, appearing in good spirits as he attended a dinner party at Mr. Chow in Beverly Hills. The "Hello" singer, who was released from the hospital earlier this month, reassured fans by flashing a double thumbs-up to onlookers.
Richie was accompanied by his girlfriend of over a decade, Lisa Parigi, for the outing. He was seen wearing a navy blue jacket and pants with white sneakers. This marks his first public appearance since being hospitalized days after an on-stage incident during a concert in St. Louis, Missouri.
During his hospital stay, Richie underwent tests for potential cardiac-related issues. Video footage from his concert at The Muny in Forest Park showed the R&B legend appearing to struggle with his breath during the final song of the night, "All Night Long." At times, he seemed to have difficulty standing and took a seat on a piano bench for the remainder of the song, gesturing for stagehands to move it closer.
The former Commodores singer continued singing while seated, sometimes gesturing for his bandmates to take over vocals. Close-ups from the video appeared to show Richie out of breath when his vocals dropped out amidst the backing track. After the song concluded, he walked off stage before returning to wave goodnight to the audience.
Richie had checked himself into the hospital shortly after the St. Louis performance. Sources indicated he went to the hospital out of an abundance of caution, with reports suggesting doctors were investigating dehydration as a possible cause. This incident followed a similar health scare in June, when Richie was forced to cut short a concert in St. Paul, Minnesota, due to feeling unwell on stage.
During the St. Paul concert, Richie reportedly told the crowd he was feeling dizzy and sat down multiple times while performing "Dancing On The Ceiling." His band members also left the stage, and a representative later announced he would not be able to continue the show. Paramedics reportedly met Richie backstage, and he was taken by ambulance to a hospital.
Despite these health concerns, Richie has maintained a demanding schedule. Sources close to the singer have expressed concern that he may prioritize entertaining over his own well-being, noting his consistent work ethic spanning decades. Richie himself has reportedly expressed more disappointment that fans did not receive a full show than concern for his health, viewing the hospitalizations as temporary setbacks.
Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire, who were on a joint tour, are now performing separately but are scheduled to reunite for a three-date mini-tour in late September and early October.