diff --git a/src/mainboard/google/fatcat/romstage.c b/src/mainboard/google/fatcat/romstage.c
index 9cece34bf6..5098cd3d8b 100644
--- a/src/mainboard/google/fatcat/romstage.c
+++ b/src/mainboard/google/fatcat/romstage.c
@@ -48,6 +48,14 @@ void mainboard_memory_init_params(FSPM_UPD *memupd)
 
 void platform_romstage_pre_mem(void)
 {
+	/*
+	 * Early initialization of the Chrome EC lightbar.
+	 * Ensures visual continuity if the AP firmware disabled the lightbar
+	 * in a previous boot without a subsequent EC reset.
+	 */
+	if (CONFIG(EC_GOOGLE_CHROMEEC))
+		google_chromeec_lightbar_on();
+
 	/*
 	 * Only alert the user (set LED to red in color) if the lid is closed and the battery
 	 * is critically low without AC power.