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DS, two pages, 8.5 x 11, April 12, 1943. Agreement between the Universal Pictures Company and comedic duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello, in part: "Because of the incapacity by reason of illness of Mr. Lou Costello, your contract of employment with us dated November 6, 1940, as heretofore amended, has been suspended since March 4, 1943. Notwithstanding such suspension, compensation has been paid to you under said contract to and including March 14, 1943. We presently contemplate, subject to the provisions hereinafter set forth, continuing the payment of compensation to you during such suspension.” Signed neatly at the conclusion in fountain by Abbott and Costello, and countersigned by two Universal Pictures representatives. In fine condition, with staple holes to the upper section.
The year of 1943 was a tragic one for Costello, who, in March 1943, after completing a winter tour of army bases, suffered an attack of rheumatic fever and was unable to work for six months. On November 4th of that year, he returned to the team's popular radio show, but while rehearsing at their NBC studio, Costello received word that his infant son, Lou Jr., had accidentally drowned in the family pool.
The tragedy deeply affected Costello, whose demeanor permanently changed, as did his relationship with Abbott. The pair rarely spoke during the production of the films Little Giant and The Time of Their Lives, and their friendship and partnership were only salvaged when Abbott suggested that the foundation that they had founded for rheumatic fever sufferers be named the Lou Costello Jr. Youth Foundation. Their efforts created the Lou Costello Jr Recreation Center, which exists to this day in Los Angeles.
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