Former TV host Alberts dead at age 87

Alberts' family members said the former TV star appears to have died of complications from kidney failure after battling circulatory problems for several weeks, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported Saturday.

Alberts gained popularity during the 1950s as a member of the music group The Four Aces. Among the male quartet's hits were "Love Is a Many Splendored Thing," and "Stranger in Paradise."

In 1968, Alberts became the host of "Showcase" and the talent show quickly became a hit in Philadelphia as it toured local theaters while airing on Philadelphia's WKBS-TV and WPVI-TV.

"It was like going to church -- a staple of life in Philadelphia," said singer Andrea McArdle, whose career got a boost from the popular TV series.

"To a wannabe thespian or entertainer, his show was our 'American Idol.'"

The Inquirer said Alberts, who died Friday, is survived by his wife Stella, two sons and a grandson.

Copyright 2009 by United Press International.