Don Costello


Eldon Lawrence "Don" Costello was an American actor of stage, screen and radio.

Background

Costello was born in New Orleans on September 5, 1901. He was the son of James J. Costello and Mary E. Costello.

Career

In the mid-1920s, Costello was stage manager for the Wright Players in Louisville, Kentucky. Later in that decade, he acted with the Majestic Players in Elmira, New York.
Costello entered films in 1935 and in 1939 was put under contract with MGM. Known for his wicked sense of humor, Costello oftentimes played the role of a menace or a tough guy. He is probably best known for his role as Lefty in the movie Here Comes Mr. Jordan. He appeared in 37 movies, including Another Thin Man, Johnny Eager and The Blue Dahlia.

Accidental Death

According to the obituary of the actor published in the Los Angeles Times on October 26, 1945, Costello died of an overdose of sleeping tablets. His wife Louise found him dead in the bedroom of their home at 13424 Valley Vista Street, Sherman Oaks. He had earlier complained of being unable to get to sleep.

Broadway roles