Sid Fields biography. A legendary American comedian, writer, and actor, best known for his work on “The Abbott and Costello Show,”
Sid Fields (February 5, 1898 – September 28, 1975)
American comedian, writer, and actor Sid Fields was born as Sidney Hirsch Feldman on February 5, 1898, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He’s best known for his work on, “The Abbott and Costello Show“. He played Bud Abbott and Lou Costello‘s strict landlord.
He began his career a a boy working in local theaters. As Sidney Feldman, he married Marie E. Collins, also a burlesque performer, on Dec. 27, 1928. Sid Fields began his career in show business in the 1920s.
As a teenager, he worked in amateur shows and local vaudeville as a “comedy monologist”. Later he became partner in a comedy team with vaudeville and burlesque performer Jack Greenman. The team split up in the 1930s, After, Sid Fields obtained work in Hollywood as a writer.
Writing career
He contributed jokes for Rudy Vallee on the radio and Eddie Cantor in films. He obtained small acting roles as well in Cantor films such as Strike Me Pink. He also appeared with the Ritz Brothers in Straight, Place and Show.
Performing
Sid continued working on a number of popular shows throughout the 1940s. Some include “The Eddie Cantor Show” and “The Jack Benny Program.”
However, it was his work on “The Abbott and Costello Show” in the 1950s that cemented his status as a comedic icon. Fields’ portrayal of the stubborn and uptight Mr. Fields was a perfect foil for the show’s zany antics. His deadpan delivery of lines like “I’m a busy man” and “I’m gonna evict those boys” became fan favorites.
In addition to his work on “The Abbott and Costello Show,” Fields also appeared in a number of films throughout his career. Some include “The Lemon Drop Kid” and “The Fuller Brush Man.” He was known for his quick wit, impeccable timing, and unique sense of humor. One classic routine that he did on both radio and television was Sid Fields takes offense – where he take offense at anything Lou Costello says.
Sid Fields continued to work in the entertainment industry until his retirement to Las Vegas Nevada. There he died of lung cancer in 1975 at the age of 77. He left behind a legacy of laughter and a lasting impact on the world of comedy.