Podcast Summary: Abbott & Costello 43-11-18 (039) Nylon Stockings with Lucille Ball
Podcast Information
- Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
- Episode Title: Abbott & Costello 43-11-18 (039) Nylon Stockings with Lucille Ball
- Release Date: May 10, 2025
- Description: A nostalgic journey into the Golden Age of Radio, featuring beloved shows and iconic characters such as The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and more, all brought to life by the family-friendly magic of radio before television.
Introduction
The episode kicks off with the familiar warm-up by Ken Niles, setting the stage for a classic Abbott & Costello comedy routine. The introduction highlights the sponsor, Camels cigarettes, and teases tonight's guest, the delightful Lucille Ball, alongside stars Bud Abbott and Lou Costello.
Notable Quote:
- Ken Niles [00:11]: "Tonight's guest, Metro Golden Mayor, star of the best foot forward, Ms. Lucille Ball."
Establishing the Plot: Costello’s Quest for Nylon Stockings
The central plot revolves around Lou Costello's desperate need to obtain a pair of nylon stockings to go out on a date with Connie Haynes. His quest is met with a series of comedic obstacles, primarily involving his interactions with his straight-man partner, Bud Abbott.
Key Interactions:
- Bud Abbott [00:48]: "There you are, Costello, late as usual. Why, what kept you this time?"
- Lou Costello [00:54]: Describes his humorous mishap with Carrie Abbott, a new postal worker who "tried to kiss me on the eyes, on the nose, on the chin" because she "can't find the right zone."
Notable Quote:
- Lou Costello [00:58]: "She tried to kiss me. Yeah, she kept flat out kissing me on the eyes, on the nose, on the chin."
Comedic Tensions: Abbott’s Frustration and Costello’s Antics
Bud Abbott grows increasingly frustrated with Costello’s incessant pursuit of women, threatening their partnership if Costello doesn't change his ways. This tension sets the stage for Costello’s determination to secure the nylon stockings.
Dialogue Highlights:
- Bud Abbott [01:51]: "Now see here, Costello, you'll have to stop this. Either you stop going around with all these girls and talking about them all of the time, or we're through."
- Lou Costello [01:58]: "I didn't know you felt that way, Abbott. Yes, all right, I promise I won't look at another girl if I live to be a thousand years old."
Introduction of New Characters and Obstacles
Connie Haynes enters the scene, presenting an opportunity for Costello to win back Abbott’s favor by choosing her instead of other women. However, compelling challenges arise, including interactions with Mrs. Niles and a whimsical appearance by Bugs Bunny.
Notable Moments:
- Connie Haynes [02:12]: "Hello, my fat little sugar man, how time flies."
- Lou Costello [03:06]: "Who can't? I can get one pair, two pairs. I can get a dozen pair of nylons."
Notable Quote:
- Connie Haynes [03:24]: "I'll see you at 8 o' clock tonight with a nylon."
The Store Scene: Searching for Nylons
Abbott and Costello arrive at Bigglebottom's store, humorously navigating through sales tactics and comedic misunderstandings to locate the coveted nylon stockings. Their encounter with Bugs Bunny adds a surreal twist typical of comedic routines.
Key Interactions:
- Lou Costello [07:12]: "Beaglebottom making a cheerful refund."
- Bugs Bunny [08:58]: "Step lively. Get a move on. Plenty of room on a second layer."
Notable Quote:
- Lou Costello [07:23]: "I can give you a tip on a real bargain. Due to a slight oversight in our tailoring Department, we have 4,000 pairs of three-legged pants."
Elevator Escapade with Bugs Bunny
In a hilarious sequence, Bugs Bunny commandeers the elevator, leading to slapstick humor as Costello tries to keep up with the fast-paced antics. This segment underscores the classic dynamic between Abbott’s straight demeanor and Costello’s chaotic energy.
Notable Quote:
- Bugs Bunny [09:04]: "Eh, what's up, doc? What's cooking, Tato?"
The Climax: Attempting to Woo Lucille Ball
The duo finally reaches Lucille Ball's house, where Costello makes an earnest yet comically inept attempt to win her over to obtain the nylon stockings. Their interactions are filled with humorous missteps and playful banter.
Key Interactions:
- Lou Costello [15:05]: "Boy, watch me go to work on that Lucille Ball. I'll turn on the tom."
- Bud Abbott [16:02]: "Look, Ms. Ball, we're just trying to be neighborly. You know how the laundry situation is and we're here to help you. With your washing, for instance."
Notable Quote:
- Lou Costello [17:17]: "When I look at your face, it sets my brain on fire."
Resolution: The Stocking Dilemma and Reconciliation
After a series of failed attempts, misunderstandings, and humorous exchanges, Costello’s plan to secure the stockings falls apart when Connie Haynes reveals she intends to give the stockings to Lucille Ball instead. Despite the setback, Bud Abbott and Lou Costello reconcile their friendship amidst the chaos.
Key Moments:
- Connie Haynes [20:07]: "Why didn't you have them wrapped as a gift?"
- Lou Costello [20:48]: Expresses feeling of loneliness, leading to Abbott comforting him.
Notable Quote:
- Bud Abbott [20:54]: "Then rest your head on my shoulder, Lou."
Conclusion: A Classic Ending with a Setup for the Next Episode
The episode wraps up with Abbott and Costello reflecting on their misadventures, with Ken Niles teasing a future Thanksgiving episode featuring Jane Wyman. The playful banter and classic sign-off maintain the nostalgic feel of the Golden Age of Radio.
Notable Quote:
- Lou Costello [21:42]: "We won't have a turkey, but that Jane Wyman. What a chicken."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Lou Costello [00:58]: "She tried to kiss me. Yeah, she kept flat out kissing me on the eyes, on the nose, on the chin."
- Connie Haynes [03:24]: "I'll see you at 8 o' clock tonight with a nylon."
- Lou Costello [07:23]: "I can give you a tip on a real bargain. Due to a slight oversight in our tailoring Department, we have 4,000 pairs of three-legged pants."
- Bugs Bunny [09:04]: "Eh, what's up, doc? What's cooking, Tato?"
- Lou Costello [17:17]: "When I look at your face, it sets my brain on fire."
Final Thoughts
This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully recreates the charm and humor of Abbott & Costello's legendary routines. The inclusion of iconic characters like Bugs Bunny and a guest appearance by Lucille Ball enrich the narrative, providing both nostalgia and fresh comedic twists. Listeners are treated to a seamless blend of classic humor, witty dialogue, and timeless friendship dynamics, making it a delightful journey for fans new and old.
End of Summary