Born on 24 February 1940 in Rochester, New York, Pete Duel moved to West Hollywood in 1963 following a tour with the National Road Company's "Take Her, She's Mine". After landing small guest spots on various TV series, Pete was cast in a recurring role alongside 'Sally Field' . The pilot was sold to the ABC network and a series was commissioned. The series was a big hit with the youth audience and Duel became subject matter for teen magazines, gaining a loyal following. When news of his sudden death by an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound was reported on TV and radio on December 31st 1971, it came as a shock to his family and friends. Early suspicion of foul play soon gave way to evidence pointing to death by suicide with depression and serious alcohol problems seen as contributing factors. Following a memorial service at the Self-Realization Temple in California on January 2nd 1972, Pete's body was flown to Penfield, New York. He was buried in Oakwood Cemetery following a memorial service at Penfield Baptist Church.
Brother of actor Geoffrey Deuel and singer Pamela Deuel.
Father was physician in small town of Penfield, outside Rochester, New York. Pete attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in NYC from 1957-1961. Played three one-year TV stints: "Gidget" , "Love on a Rooftop" (co-star) and "Alias Smith and Jones" (co-star).
At the time of his suicide, police reported that the gun Duel used had also been used to shoot a framed telegram telling him that he hadnt been elected to the board of directors of the Screen Actors Guild.
Was named the "Most Promising Male Star" of 1966 in Quigley Publications "Television Almanac".
