Sort: Trending
Part 1/7:
The Life and Legacy of Lou Costello
Lou Costello, one half of the beloved comedic duo Abbott and Costello, was born on March 6, 1906, in Patterson, New Jersey. Known as Louis Francis Cristillo, Costello displayed talent and charisma from an early age, both in athletics—particularly basketball and boxing—and in performance. His career, however, was not without challenges, as it took him several years to find his footing in the entertainment industry.
Early Life and Career
Part 2/7:
Costello married Ann Batler, a burlesque dancer, on March 30, 1934, and the couple went on to have four children: Patricia, Carol, Lou Jr., and Christine. Costello moved to Hollywood in 1927, where he initially worked as an extra and occasionally as a stuntman. After a lack of success, he returned to New Jersey and performed in burlesque theaters. It was during this time that he adopted the stage name "Costello," inspired by actress Helen Costello.
Part 3/7:
In 1936, his career took a significant turn when he partnered with comedian Bud Abbott. The duo quickly gained popularity on the radio, creating memorable routines, with "Who's on First?" being their most famous. Their success led to Hollywood contracts, and over the next two decades, Abbott and Costello became household names through their films and radio shows.
Personal Tragedies
Part 4/7:
Amidst their professional success, Costello faced substantial personal turmoil. In March 1943, he contracted rheumatic fever, forcing him to take a six-month hiatus from work. Tragically, upon returning to their radio show on November 4, 1943, he received devastating news: his son Lou Jr. had accidentally drowned in the family pool while his parents were unaware. The child was just two days shy of his first birthday. Despite this heartbreak, Costello insisted on continuing the broadcast, showcasing his resilience with the mantra, "The show must go on."
The audience remained unaware of the tragic loss until after the show ended, highlighting Costello's professionalism and dedication to his craft.
Financial Struggles and Dissolution of the Partnership
Part 5/7:
In the late 1940s and early 1950s, both Abbott and Costello found themselves under scrutiny from the IRS for tax-related issues. Financial troubles loomed over them as their box office performances began to wane. By the mid-1950s, their films were no longer performing well, leading Universal Pictures to decline renewing their movie contract. In 1955, this culminated in the dissolution of their partnership, though they maintained a cordial relationship.
Post the partnership, Costello attempted to forge a solo career, which included performances in Las Vegas and guest appearances on television. However, his health began to decline.
Final Years and Legacy
Part 6/7:
Lou Costello's health deteriorated, and he suffered a heart attack shortly after the production of his final film, "The 30-Foot Bride of Candy Rock." He passed away on March 3, 1959, just three days before his 53rd birthday. His final moments are often misrepresented in various accounts; while some say he spoke fondly of strawberry ice cream, newspaper reports suggest he fell into cardiac arrest shortly after adjusting his bed position following visits from friends and family.
Costello was laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in East Los Angeles after a funeral mass in Sherman Oaks. Sadly, his wife Anne passed away just nine months later from a heart attack at the age of 47.
Conclusion
Part 7/7:
Lou Costello left behind a legacy of laughter and joy, marking a significant chapter in the history of American comedy. The partnership with Bud Abbott produced some of the most enduring comedic material of the 20th century, revered and remembered by fans to this day. Costello's ability to persevere through adversity, both professionally and personally, stands as a testament to his enduring spirit in the world of entertainment.
As fans reflect on the legacy of Abbott and Costello, they ask themselves: What was your favorite Abbott and Costello movie? Engaging with their work continues to keep the spirit of their comedy alive, inviting new generations to appreciate the art of laughter.