From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Abbott and Costello (William (Bud) Abbott, 1897-1974); Louis Costello, 1906-1959), American comedy duo whose work in radio, film, and television made them one of the most popular and respected teams in comedy history. The two comedians first worked together in 1935 at the Eltinge burlesque theater on 42nd Street in New York. Costello became a comic after failing as a movie stunt double and extra; Abbott had been in burlesque since 1916, as a cashier, producer, and finally a performer. Read more on Last.fm