KEY POINT
- Richie underwent a procedure for atrial fibrillation, commonly known as AFib.
- His representative said the procedure went perfectly and that the singer is taking time away from performances.
- Several upcoming Earth, Wind & Fire tour dates have been postponed or canceleúd, while his Las Vegas residency is currently scheduled to resume in October.
Richie’s representative confirmed the medical procedure to ABC News, saying doctors were pleased with the outcome. The statement added that Richie is doing well and plans to return to performing after taking some time off.
The development affects his current touring schedule with Earth, Wind & Fire. KTLA 5 reported that shows planned for San Francisco on Sept. 26, Chicago on Sept. 30 and Columbus, Ohio, on Oct.
3 have been canceled, while the Chase Center separately announced that the San Francisco performance would be postponed and that tickets would be honored for a rescheduled date.
The differing descriptions reflect updates from the venues and reports surrounding the affected dates. No new date for the San Francisco performance had been announced in the supplied material.
Richie’s representative did not disclose additional medical details beyond identifying the procedure as treatment for atrial fibrillation. The singer had already experienced health-related interruptions during his current touring run.
In late June, Richie became ill during the opening night of the tour in St. Paul, Minnesota. He reportedly felt dizzy and strange while performing, ended the concert early and was taken to a hospital by ambulance.
KTLA 5 also reported that Richie spent several days in intensive care after checking himself into a St. Louis hospital following an August performance. The report described the latest procedure as his third hospitalization in recent months.
The CDC describes atrial fibrillation as an irregular heart rhythm that can produce symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath and chest pain. Treatment options can include medication, procedures or surgery, along with lifestyle changes.
The Mayo Clinic notes that AFib can contribute to blood clots in the heart and is associated with increased risks of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.
According to KTLA 5, Richie’s tour schedule currently lists a return to performances on Oct. 14 with a six-show engagement at the Encore Theater at Wynn Las Vegas. His “King of Hearts” shows are also scheduled for October and November.
ABC News reported that Richie is expected to return to the stage after his recovery period, although the supplied material does not provide a specific date for his return to the Earth, Wind & Fire tour.
Sources: ABC News, KTLA 5, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Mayo Clinic, TMZ
