Music icon Lionel Richie was almost the victim of a terrifying home burglary as his mansion was targeted by thieves just after midnight – but his home security systems scared the intruder away
Lionel Richie’s house was targeted by burglars – while the music legend was at home. The 76-year-old Dancing On The Ceiling singer had to contend with an intruder at his Beverly Hills mansion just after midnight on Saturday morning.
The summer of 2025 has been blighted by burglaries in Los Angeles’s most famous postcode. A string of other A-Listers have had their properties ransacked by thieves.
Lionel is the fist big name star that was at home at the time of an alleged incident – and his high tech home surveillance systems have been credited with scaring the intruder away. And authorities are reportedly hopeful footage from his CCTV systems could help secure justice.
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TMZ reports that a Beverly Hills Police Department source confirmed the icon’s property was burglarized by a suspected thief. The outlet reports: “Officers received a radio call regarding a residential burglary just after midnight in the 90210 neighborhood, where the famed singer-songwriter owns a property.”
The report went on to name a man who was arrested on suspicion of residential burglary. The District Attorney, however, is yet to formally file a charge – with the investigation reports on Saturday as “ongoing”.
TMZ went on to claim: “Investigators are looking into security footage and other evidence from the scene.” It is believed nothing was stolen from Lionel’s home. The Mirror has contacted a representative of the singer for comment.
Back in June, Brad Pitt’s home in the Los Feliz neighbourhood of LA was targeted by thieves. People reported at the time that a trio of suspects “broke into the residence via the front window, ransacked the location, then fled the location with miscellaneous property.” The actor is in the process of selling the property – for the sum of $5.5 million (£4 million).
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban’s Los Angeles home was targeted by thieves on Valentine’s Day. While other celebs including Real Housewives star Teddi Mellencamp and singer Ashlee Simpson have also been the victims of burglaries in recent months.
Away from crime dramas, Lionel continues to be a judge on long-running US talent show American Idol. He joined the judging panel in 2018 – and the most reason season, the 23rd, concluded earlier this year.
Lionel offered guidance and support alongside fellow singers Luke Bryan and Carrie Underwood. Jamal Roberts proved triumphant and was crowned the winner in a glittering climax that aired on 18 May.
The show was renewed for Season 24 by ABC just over a week before Jamal was crowned winner – with the next season due to premiere in spring 2026.
The show’s official Instagram account confirmed the news with the caption, “Dim the lights… here we go… #AmericanIdol is coming back for another season!” Lionel, Luke and Carrie are expected to return – along with host Ryan Seacrest.
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