Lionel Richie's former wife, Brenda Harvey, has provided an update on the music icon after he was rushed to the hospital midway through his concert. The legendary performer, 77, was appearing on stage at the Grand Casino in Minnesota in the US last week when he fell ill and was treated in an ambulance after informing the audience he was feeling dizzy.
Ex-Wife Reassures Fans
Lionel subsequently postponed his concert tour, with an official statement revealing the singer was left "heartbroken" by the decision. His ex-wife, Brenda Harvey, who the singer was married to for 18 years before their divorce in 1993, has now reassured fans regarding Lionel's condition, confirming the star is recovering well. Taking to X, she wrote: "Thanking everyone for their concern! Lionel is OK and will be back on the stage."
Tour Dates Postponed
The United Centre in Chicago also released a statement on Lionel's behalf, disclosing that the Endless Love star has postponed his next two dates on the Sing A Song All Night Long tour with Earth, Wind and Fire. The statement read: "Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his next two shows on Friday, June 26 in Chicago, IL and Saturday, June 27 in Columbus, OH. He and Earth, Wind and Fire will return to the stage on Tuesday, June 30 in Pittsburgh, PA."
Lionel is believed to have been transported by ambulance to the hospital following his performance last week as a precautionary measure. Saxophonist Dino Soldo, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune, said: "Unfortunately, Lionel is not feeling well. He won't be able to continue."
Concerns from Insiders
Those close to Lionel are reportedly "concerned" about his wellbeing, with insiders suggesting the star is devastated to "disappoint" audiences. A source told the Mail: "Family, friends, and even his bandmates are definitely concerned about Lionel's health, but nobody is about to tell him to slow down. They all want him better and to do what he loves to do. Right now, Lionel is actually more upset that fans didn't get the full show they paid for than he is about himself and his health. That's where his head is. He hates disappointing people and feels terrible that the concert couldn't continue as planned."
His Minnesota performance marked the opening night of Lionel's extensive tour alongside Earth, Wind and Fire. During the show, the legendary disco ensemble performs their classics, including Boogie Wonderland and September during the opening half, before Lionel appears for the second portion. Currently, the tour is scheduled to visit 26 cities throughout the summer months.
