Lionel Richie Hospitalized for Irregular Heartbeat, Three Shows Canceled

Lionel Richie, 77, was hospitalized for atrial fibrillation and underwent a common ablation procedure. His representative told PEOPLE and the Daily Mail that the doctor said everything went perfectly, that Lionel is doing great, and that he will take some time off and will be back on stage soon. Organizers canceled three Sing a Song All Night Long tour dates with Earth, Wind & Fire: Sept. 26 in San Francisco, Sept. 30 in Chicago and Oct. 2 in Columbus, Ohio. Reports describe the stay as his third hospitalization in three months. In August he had a three-day ICU stay in St. Louis after a Muny concert where witnesses said he performed the finale All Night Long seated. On June 24 in St. Paul he felt dizzy, cut the opening-night show short and left by ambulance; returning June 30 in Pittsburgh he told the crowd, "I had you worried there for a minute, huh?" In July he posted thanks for every message and kind word, saying he was doing well and grateful. CONTESTED: Rated outlets agree on the procedure, the three cancellations and the prior June and August incidents; no factual dispute is present in the record.