The Name Game

"I'm asking you who's on first." "That's the man's name." That's who's name?" "Yes."

- Abbott and Costello, Who's On First

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I love comedy. There's nothing quite like a hearty laugh to lift the spirits. I seek out humor in all places. Sometimes, it discovers me first.

While exploring potential topics at a local cemetery, I noticed something that made me look twice. It also made me chuckle. If I hadn't been observant, I would have overlooked it.

William "Bud" Abbott and Lou Costello were a comedy duo who gained immense popularity on stage, radio, television, and film throughout the 1940s and mid-1950s. They met in 1936 when Bud stepped in as a last-minute replacement for Lou Costello's usual straight man. It was a magical pairing.

Bud and Lou are the only non-athletes to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Their baseball-themed skit "Who’s On First" is one of the most renowned comedy acts in history. If you haven't experienced "Who’s On First," give it a listen.

Audiences consistently desired more of their performances. Their first film, Buck Privates, achieved a record-breaking profit for its time. Later films continued this trend, blending Abbott and Costello's comedy with classic horror, leading to movies such as "Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein" and "Abbott and Costello Meet The Mummy".

Regrettably, their popularity started to decline toward the late 1950s. Despite encouragement, neither was interested in experimenting with new material. Coupled with emerging duos like Dean Martin and Jerry Lewis, their act began to lose its appeal. Additionally, issues with the IRS compelled them to sell their homes and other assets. By the time their careers concluded, they were nearly penniless. They parted ways in 1957.

Following the breakup, Lou made appearances on several television shows and was featured in a movie that was eventually released posthumously. He passed away from a heart attack at the age of 52 in 1959 and was laid to rest in the main mausoleum of Calvary Cemetery in Los Angeles, CA.

In 1961, Bud teamed up with another comedian, and although they experienced some success, he concluded the partnership believing no one could compare to Lou Costello. Following more work in television and voice-overs, his health started to decline. He suffered a stroke and later broke a hip, spending his final years confined to bed. Bud Abbott died of cancer in 1974 at the age of 79. He was cremated, and his ashes were scattered in the Pacific Ocean.

Now you understand that my discovery of the headstone isn't related to Bud and Lou, except for the last names. But what were the chances of stumbling upon that combination?

On that specific day, humor found its way to me once more. It just proves that even in a somber place, you can find a reason to smile.

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Christine Shephard is a photographer, writer, and avid taphophile. She makes her home in Central New York.

Images captured by Christine Shephard Photographic Design and the written content cannot be utilized in any other format or publication without explicit permission.

Photo of Abbott and Costello - History Things.

Information on Bud Abbott and Lou Costello - Mental Floss and Find A Grave.