Bobby Barber

Bobby Barber (December 18, 1894 – May 24, 1976) was an American actor who appeared in over 100 films. Barber is notable for his work as a foil for Abbott and Costello on and off screen.

Bobby Barber
Barber in Second Chorus, 1940
Born(1894-12-18)December 18, 1894
New York City, New York, U.S.
DiedMay 24, 1976(1976-05-24) (aged 81)
Seal Beach, California, U.S.
Years active1926-1963
Spouse(s)Maxine Barber

Biography

Barber was often used by Bud Abbott and Lou Costello as a form of "court jester" on the set of their films. It was his job to keep the energy level up between shots with pranks and practical jokes. Sometimes, he even interrupted a take to break up the cast and crew. In Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948), Costello opens a door expecting to see Lon Chaney Jr. Instead, Barber enters wearing a funny hat with a feather. In another outtake from that film, Bela Lugosi solemnly descends a staircase to meet Abbott and Costello's characters. Unbeknownst to him, Barber follows behind him, mimicking his steps. The prank breaks up the cast and crew, but Lugosi did not appear amused.

His film career included bit parts, often uncredited, in over 100 (known) feature films. Barber appeared in many Abbott and Costello films and about half their television shows. His final film appearance was in Lou Costello's last movie, The 30 Foot Bride of Candy Rock (1959). Following the death of Lou Costello's father, Costello became very close with Barber, including him in various antics off set, such as going out for ice cream for breakfast. Barber died in 1976 in California, at age 81.[1]

Selected filmography

References
  1. Chris Costello & Raymond Trait (1981). Lou's On First. St. Martin's Press. ISBN 0312499132.


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