American Idol fans fear Lionel Richie’s “voice has changed” in his latest performance with former contestants

AMERICAN Idol fans have expressed their concern for Lionel Richie following his appearance in the show’s finale.

Viewers claimed it sounded like the 73-year-old singer’s voice had “changed” when he performed with the top 12 contestants on Sunday night.

Lionel belted out his hit song “Sail On” with the previous contestants on stage.

The Easy hitmaker began singing while playing the piano before being joined by the contest’s eliminated stars.

While many Idol fans praised Lionel’s performance, some claimed he sounded different.

One wrote on Instagram: “His voice has changed,” and another added, “I like old Lionel Ritchie.”

A third asked: “Is it just me or does he sound different?”

However, others defended The Commodores star, with one viewer enthusing: “Still has a beautiful voice! Good job.”

Lionel saw himself performing at the coronation of King Charles III. Also faced criticism for his singing skills earlier in the month.

A viewer asked at the time, “What the heck happened to Lionel’s voice?”

“What happened to Lionel Richie? Has he died and been replaced? Doesn’t sound like him at all,” added another.

Lionel subtly returned the criticism hours later by saying he was proud of his act.

LIONEL KNOCKS OFF

In an Instagram story, Lionel shared a video of his high-profile performance.

The nine-minute clip showed him in a black and white outfit as he sat at the piano and kicked off with a live performance of his hit song “Easy.”

In the audience, King Charles and Queen Camilla watched intently while many other spectators sang along and danced to the song.

Lionel captioned his post, “All night long at Windsor Castle England,” referring to another of his chart-topping hits.

Katy Perry joined Lionel in reporting from the UK during King Charles’ coronation.

Once the co-moderators even welcomed the newly crowned king in their live broadcast.

The duo were replaced by Ed Sheeran and Alanis Morrisette during their absence on the American Idol panel of judges.

The temporary members of the jury were praised for their duties as judges, with some fans even suggesting they remain on the jury permanently.