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Lionel Richie Credits 'Fear' and Adaptation for Longevity as American Idol Premiere Hits Four-Year High

The 76-year-old judge says staying open to TikTok-era discovery flows from a mindset of useful fear.

Overview

  • Richie says a healthy sense of fear has guided him through more than five decades in music.
  • He recalls his father's advice that both heroes and cowards feel fear, with progress coming from stepping forward.
  • He emphasizes constant reinvention as essential, noting the industry’s shift from radio to a social-first landscape.
  • Richie identifies TikTok as a leading source for new artists and a place the show now looks to find talent.
  • Back on the American Idol panel, he helped launch the Jan. 26 ABC premiere that drew about 5.9 million viewers, the best in four years according to Deadline.