Bud Abbott

Biography

Bud Abbott was born on October 2, 1897, in Asbury Park, New Jersey. He grew up in a circus family, with his father as an advance man and his mother a bareback horse rider. Abbott began his career in burlesque after dropping out of school at age 12 to work at Coney Island. In 1918, he moved to Detroit, where he managed the National Theater and performed alongside his wife, burlesque dancer Betty Smith. His big break came in 1936 when he substituted as the straight man for Lou Costello during a performance, leading to the formation of the iconic comedy duo Abbott and Costello. Known for his tall stature and deadpan delivery, Abbott complemented Costello's energetic style. The duo became famous for their classic routines, significantly impacting American comedy until their eventual dissolution in the 1950s. Abbott passed away in 1974.