Teen idol Fabian is singing the praises of a group of doctors who saved his life during dramatic heart surgery.
The 71-year-old entertainer, born Fabiano Anthony Forte, was having problems with his ticker “for years” and underwent aortic valve replacement at a hospital in Pittsburgh, Pa., in early April.
According to an insider, “Fabian’s heart medication apparently stopped working and he was told by doctors surgery was his only option.”
The star’s manager Oscar Arslanian says, “Fabian’s still recovering but he seems to be in good spirits.
His wife, Andrea, has been constantly at his side.
“Naturally, everyone was very concerned when doctors recently informed him he needed an operation. He ended up having an aortic valve replacement and a blockage removed.”
Alarmingly, the performer’s policeman father Dominic suffered a heart attack when the 1960s sensation was a teen.
Now Fabian and his third wife, a 53-year-old former Miss Pennsylvania, are actively involved in the American Heart Association, as well as the American Diabetes Association.
He has a son, Christian, 44, who owns and runs Fabian’s Italian Bistro in Fair Oaks, Calif., and a daughter, Julia, 42, from his first marriage. He also has two grandkids.
The “Turn Me Loose” singer, who lives with his wife on an 18-acre property in southwestern Pennsylvania, rose to national prominence after a stint on American Bandstand.
In recent years, he’s been performing with fellow heartthrobs, Frankie Avalon, 73, and Bobby Rydell, 71, as part of The Golden Boys.
According to his manager, “He’s had to cancel a couple of shows and Lou Christie will be stepping in for him.”
Recovery from aortic valve replacement normally takes about three months, if the patient is in good health.
“I know Fabian is going to be just fine from his heart surgery,” says Arslanian.
“A lot of people have been calling to see how he’s doing and sending their prayers and well wishes.
“Fabian’s strong like a bull and works out all the time. I’m sure he’s looking forward to getting back to work as soon as the doctors give him the green light.”
