by Stephen Lewis; Movie World, April 1972
The driveway of the small wooden house blazed with colored Christmas lights that had been set out only a few days before. In their reflection, and the lights of the parked police cars, the girl stood still, her face numbed with shock and tragedy.
Reporters held up cameras and shouted questions, but the girl couldn’t answer. And as the stretcher was carried to the waiting ambulance, even the questions stopped — the coarse blanket that stretched over the lifeless body answered them all. The girl was Dianne Ray, and the body was that of Peter Duel, the star of the hit series Alias Smith & Jones. The night of Thursday, December 30, had started out to be a quiet one for the couple who had recently gotten back together after a breakup. In the early hours of December 31, it had ended in a tragedy that was headlined in newspapers and talked about on national news programs.
Pete had asked Dianne, his steady girl, to spend the evening at his house. They had watched television — a basketball game and then his series — and he’d been upset at the evening’s episode. When the show was over, Pete had excused himself and gone into the living room, stopping first to take another drink. He’d also taken his .38 pistol. Moments later, he lay dead beneath the Christmas tree in the living room, a bullet in his head!
On the surface, the story is sad and simple, and the headlines of “Young Actor Takes His Life!” might have written themselves. But to those who knew Pete Duel not as the TV star he was but as a man, the sadness of the story is tragic.
“There was always something tragic about him,” an executive who had worked with Pete at Universal Studios, where his show was filmed, said. “He seemed so strange and so somber — as if he were lost in Hollywood.
It wasn’t so much in Hollywood that Pete was lost, but in himself. In interviews, stories, and official studio press releases he was a rising star who had a great future ahead of him. In reality, he was a 31-year-old man who had been in and out of Alcoholics Anonymous several times, and who was deeply troubled by what he felt to be the problems of his career.
For an indication of the real Pete Duel — born Peter Deuel — one had to know the behind-the-scenes story of Alias Smith & Jones, the story that was talked about on the lot, but kept from the public.
The story began happily. Last summer, when the show was selected by ABC-TV for prime time viewing, Pete was thrilled. He’d guested on series such as Marcus Welby, The Virginian, and The Bold Ones. He was working steadily, but he felt he was getting nowhere.
At thirty-one, executives told Pete he still had a lot of time to make it. True, some of his movies — such as Generation — hadn’t exactly set the fans or critics on fire, but the right break was sure to come along. Pete wanted to believe them, but at Universal he saw too many hopefuls who had been signed to the studio’s talent program knocked off the payroll when their “big breaks” never seemed to arrive. Many of the kids who made the guest-star circuit at the studio were a good five or even ten years younger than Pete — and distortions on an official studio biography didn’t make it any easier for him to lie to himself about his age.
When Alias Smith & Jones came along, it seemed like the answer. The series was funny, clever, and loosely based on two characters like those who made Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid such a successful film. It wasn’t the most original idea in TV history, but by studio and network standards it was marketable.
Part of the sell was to young audiences — and that meant Pete had to play the Hollywood game to the best of his ability. For several years he had a drinking problem, and though he’d been able to kick the habit for a while with the help of AA, he had fallen off the wagon with a thud while depressed about his career. Now, Pete had to be careful — but it seemed his spirits might lift with the success of the show, and that his drinking problem might cure itself.
The first episode aired and Pete received good reviews. He was happy — for a while.
The happiness, though, soon faded. For one thing, Pete and his co-star, Ben Murphy, didn’t get along. Ben has never been the easiest person to get along with around Universal, and in time the animosity that Pete had tried to conceal turned into a deadly silence that saw the two stars speaking only in front of the camera.
Then, too, there were problems with producers. Pete was unhappy with the scripts for the show, and when the ratings began to slip, he complained. But he could only verbalize some of his feelings —others were expressed in the way he refused to pose for publicity shots and turned down numerous interview requests.
His hopes for stardom seemed to fade with the decline in the show’s popularity, and Pete began to drink again.
There were a couple of bright spots in Pete’s life and Dianne Ray was one of them. They had dated for over a year, but just when it seemed that they might get married, they had broken up.
Pete drank again — and he was arrested on a drunk driving charge that let to two years probation. He missed Dianne, friends said. But shortly before his death, the couple had gotten back together, and Pete was full of hope.
“This will be a new feeling,” he predicted optimistically. “We’ve both changed quite a bit. We’ve both learned quite a lot from whatever we’ve done before. And we’re going at it just one step at a time.”
Pete had changed all right — but friends sadly recall that he’d grown even more introverted than usual. He seemed to carry the problems of his show wherever he went, taking the troubles of the set far more seriously than most actors. Pete thought that Alias Smith & Jones might be canceled — and perhaps he felt that with it his own chances might be gone.
There were those who told him he was wrong. Dianne, his brother Geoffrey Deuel, his family in Rochester, New York — all gave him their love and understanding. But Pete needed to feel that he had made it.
Unlike his brother, Pete had changed his family name to a more common spelling. Though “it’s easier” was the studio’s official reason when asked why Deuel had become Duel, it is a fact that the name change came after Pete lunched with numerologist Guerin Moore and was advised that his original name was unlucky.
But luck, no matter what he called himself, wasn’t with Pete. There were times when he seemed fortunate — like when he was selected for a leading role in Hollywood Television Theatre’s production The Scarecrow, the show that would kick off the prestigious series. It was a story of the occult and the supernatural — and on the set Pete seemed thoroughly involved in the subject as he read The Devil and Daniel Webster. But there were failures, too. Pete had seen, time after time, hopes of his come to nothing. His movies had flopped. He’d gone through sad love affairs, such as the romance with Kim Darby that had almost led to marriage.
Recently, there had been a new kind of rejection. Pete had run for an office in the Screen Actors Guild elections, and it had seemed that he might win. But the telegram that arrived at his house told him that he’d failed once again.
As if the news epitomized the problems of his life, Pete framed the telegram, hung it on the wall, and shot a hole in it with the same gun that later killed him. This took place just a week before his death.
The holiday season failed to life Pete’s spirits. Everyone he met seemed determined to be happy and carefree, but faced with a sinking series, this was one time when Pete could no longer play the Hollywood game. Instead, he became more withdrawn then ever, sulking on the set and talking only with friends like Belinda Montgomery, who visited him on the afternoon of December 30.
A stunt man drove Pete home that day, and once in the house he had a drink. Dianne arrived after Pete called her, and they watched TV. She complimented him on his Alias Smith & Jones performance, but Pete was unhappy. He didn’t like the script or the direction or the cast — and maybe he didn’t like himself.
As another New Year approached, perhaps the prospect of more disappointment was too much to bear. A shot was fired, and by the time Dianne reached the living room, Pete was dead under the Christmas tree.
When the police arrived, according to first reports, there was talk of a “slaying.” As the facts became clearer, the reports “probably suicide” or the kinder “accidental death.” Pete’s brother Geoffrey insisted that he couldn’t have taken his own life.
There are still questions about what Pete was thinking that tragic night, and there always will be. There are questions, too, about what might have become of his career, and possibilities that long-awaited break might have come.
But Peter Duel didn’t wait for the answers. The failure and frustration that had been with him for so long finally won out, and a loaded gun took Pete’s life.
I remember Pete from my childhood. I thought he was the most handsome man I ever saw. He played on Gidget. When I was in my teens I was ecstatic to see him in a pilot movie for Alias Smith and Jones. I was devastated when I heard the news of his death. It wasn’t until 2017 when I saw an old rerun of the Virginian that the same feelings I had for him back in 1971 surfaced. Now, in 2019 I see him on the insp channel. He still remains to me one of the most handsome, and talented actors this world has ever had. He is missed to this day. My heart aches for his family and friends that loved him so. He will always be remembered for his beautiful smile, telling eyes, and oh, oh, those dimples!
I just saw a rerun on The Virginian with Peter Duel…”What Price is Love?” Fabulous actor…fabulous!
I thought that pete duel was very handsome and talented. I watch alias smith and jones every Saturday on cozi tv. I was 9 years old in 1971, but I didn’t know until years later that peter duel had committed suicide. I keep thinking that maybe if he had gotten some help, maybe he wouldn’t have done it. He career might have taken off in a big way. But the world will never know.
So sad the world lost a great man.
Happy Birthday Peter
You are missed
There is an article in the February 2019 CAR AND DRIVER Magazine where a man has kept Pete Duel’s 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429 untouched in his barn to this very day. He bought it from him and picked it up from him, so he says. He has put a picture of him underneath the front windshield wiper.
There is an episode of “Jay Leno’s Garage” with an immaculately restored version of this car, which is extremely rare and valued highly by car collectors. But what is especially eerie is how the car is described by aficionados and automotive critics: “a beautiful car, with tremendous power and intensity, that achieved overnight fame, but was never able to live up to it’s potential, and was cut short in production.”
Isn’t it strange that after so many years so many people remember Pete Duel? What was it about him that made him so special? I was 7 when he died and when I first saw Alias Smith & Jones in The Netherlands (yes, I’m Dutch) Roger Davis had already taken over the part of Hannibal Heyes… so Roger was my first Heyes. I never understood my mother when she said she liked the old Heyes better. It was only after a rerun of the series some years later when I first saw Pete Duel. I think one of his best scenes was in ‘Return to Devil’s Hole’ when that lady told her so manieth lie about her daughter committing suicide. The look in his eyes, the expression on his face. He was a great actor. He was a very special man… his poetry is wonderful, even so many years ago he was worried about our Earth. I think he would not have liked the way the world is like now. Today I have looked at a lot of actors and singers who grew really old and unrecognazible. Pete will stay forever young and beautiful when you look him up on the internet. And he is still remembered with a warm heart and warm feelings. A very special person. He is the kind of man that should never be forgotten.
Wow. I just noticed that Pete Duel died on December 31, 1971. I am watching an old “Alias Smith & Jones” episode that aired originally in March of 1971, and thought what a waste of a pretty good and better looking actor. I was 15 when he died, and don’t remember hearing anything about his death. I do sort of remember when Roger Davis (ex-husband of Jaclyn Smith) had a part on the show.
Whenever I hear “It’s One of Those Nights” by The Partridge Family, I cry inconsolably. This song was popular at the very same time that Peter Deuel took his life. I was 15. The power of music. To this day, it affects me the same.
I read some where when Peter die he was wearing a love ring, can anyone tell me if that is true,and that he was bury with it on.After that I got me a love ring and I have had it on ever since
I was 9 when he died. Living in the UK I felt so far away. I wanted answers that did not come and truthfully were not mine to know. I was so crushed when I learned he had died. To this day I often think of the impression he made on me me, his talent and his cheeky smile. I don’t know how all these years have passed and I am sad for him and his family that he missed them. To have us all thinking of him so many years later, what a talented individual he was. Still missed.
“i wanted answers that did not come and truthfully were not mine to know.” … i’ve read ALL the comments and this is absolutely my favorite. Just EXACTLY how we all felt and soo TRUE! Without a doubt Pete was my first crush. i was so young i didn’t even understand what i was feeling! OMGOSH i STILL daydream 💭 about those GORGEOUS DIMPLES!! 💋
fantastic series loved pete duel so sad rest in peace pete
I was 23 when Pete died. I was devastated. I loved the show. I Can’t believe anyone’s life to be so bad you resort to suicide. The show was never the same with him gone. RIP. You were lo ed by your fans. There is no coming back from death. Such a tragedy.
His work in PBS “Scarecrow” was in limbo for a brief amount of time, scheduled to play but they weren’t sure about it since Duel’s sudden and sad passing – but they did go ahead. Critics’ pre-reviews were impressed with his work in it. He was proud of it – but too much “stuff” kept him from staying to see where else it would lead him. Still remembered – for good reason.
Depression is a helluva illness.
Someone I loved dearly, took his life, like Pete, almost 2 yrs. ago. He was a alcoholic, like Pete. Alcoholism is a destructive thing. It tears up so many lives. It is a depressant, but eludes those drinking into thinking, with the next drink I’ll be happy again….then it never happens. So sad.
Loved the show, Always wanted to be as cool as Mr. Duel had such an awesome presence when he was in any scene. Never knew his health issues. Some how Id like to think it was an accident and maybe he was just starting to have a seizure and causing involentary muscles to fire the shot. My respect to all of you for never forgetting one of our generations heros.
It is so great to see that so many remember this fabulous actor! I was 8 years old when this happened and I was just shocked. I remember I had just watched the latest episode and could not wait until the next one! All these years later, I still remember kids in my neighborhood, cousins, we were all young, trying to wrap our heads around it. I thought he was the most handsome man! Ben was cute too, but Pete had it all! I really think had he lived, He would eventually become a red hot movie star. R.I.P. Handsome talented man…. I hope you are at peace now. I bet you are 🙂
I was 7 years old when Pete died. I was heartbroken. Alias Smith and Jones was my favorite tv show. May you rest in peace Pete, a very talented actor, gone too soon but never forgotten.
I was 9 when he died. I felt a large part of me died, too. I was going through an insecure period back then. I was ablet to “get lost” in happiness when I watched the show.
To this day, I feel a great sense of sadness when I think of him, because had the same feelings he did. Therapy helped. Medication, too. I wish he could have recite right help during that time.
I wish I could have been in his life as a good friend. The kind of friend that could have made a difference in his life.
I remember clearly,the great enjoyment that your acting brought to my early teenage years. The good times you provided us are treasured and never forgotten.
It is with great sadness,now,that I read of the difficulties you were enduring all through that period.
Thank you,Peter for all that you gave us,and I trust and pray that you are now free of that pain.
It’s lovely to read all the comments here about Pete and the obvious love. appreciation and affection in which is held despite the passing of the years. The passing of time has done nothing to diminish his obvious talent and extraordinary charisma, indeed time has merely enhanced it.
I was only nine when he passed away but even at that young age I recognized that he was something special. There was tremendous chemistry between himself and Ben on screen and a subtlety to his acting that was sublime. Young girls adored him, young boys wanted to be him. He was a rare and very special talent. A light went out for me when he died but reading all these tributes I’ve realized that Pete touched so many of us so deeply that his light will continue to shine and the love and affection we feel for him will never leave us.
Thinking of Pete Duel this December 31, with immense respect and admiration for the clever and talented performances that brought us so much delight. Rest in peace.
I’ll join this long list of those who still think of Pete Duel so many years after his death. I was 14 at the time, and his death was a tragic shock in my young life. It made no sense to me then, and at that age I wouldn’t have understood his troubles.
Despite the beginning lyrics of the theme from M*A*S*H about “suicide is painless” it never is. There is the victim’s pain & the intense pain of the ones left behind, who loved him. Somehow that pain never goes away.
I always loved watching Pete and was really heartbroken when he died. I truly believe he could have been one of the greats! And to this day I think of him and wonder … “what if”. So sad that a precious life was cut short. After all these years … rest in peace Pete. Thanks for the memorie
I have been writing a book of my life for my children and had mentioned how i loved Alias Smith and Jones and how i was totally in love with Pete Duel at the age of 12, and that when news of his death was announced i cried for months. My daughter has been reading this book and brought me the DVD set that i did not know existed – such wonderful memories and has rekindled my love for Pete, he had such a screen presence. I shall now search out his other shows. RIP Pete, i will never forget you
I hear so many people here say Pete’s demons made him commit suicide. WRONG!!! Did anyone here ever think he had medical problems that made him kill himself? Ernest Hemingway committed suicide at middle age for having too much iron in his blood. His body lacked the enzyme needed to enable him to do that. Pete Duel was a good man who also had epilepsy. Did anyone think for a minute having seizures, possible sleeping problems, and a numerous host of other physical symptoms from having epilepsy made him do the same for these reasons?? Sorry if I offend some here, but I get sick and tired of people thinking DEMONS caused his death. God Bless his soul and never think that one day soon you’ll be so sick you would do the same as he did. Escape sickness.
I agree, there are chemicals in the brain that can determine our behaviour. Lack of Serotonin is a biggy. I was only young when he died, but he was my favourite character in that TV programme. I’m sure he received lots of fan mail which obviously didn’t make the difference to his self worth. May he rest in peace, a lovely looking man, and I’m sure given the right help, he would have been able to come through it all.
He was such a good looking man, that smile…
No, Pete killed himself. All the other “reasons” might, empathise on might, have contributed to his death. But Pete bought the gun, he loaded it and put it to his head & pulled the trigger. There is no one person or reason to blame. Except maybe the incredible pressure he put on himself trying to be a “star” instead of the marvelous actor he was.
Actually, Pete didn’t buy the gun. It was given to him. Additionally, there is compelling evidence that the drug he was taking to control his seizures also deepened his depression and triggered suicidal urges, as this drug is still, today, known to do. These situations are, in the end, never how they appear on the surface.
Thank u for your insight. And shame on whatever idiot gave him the gun. But ultimately Pete pulled the trigger. I feel immense sorrow for him, his loved ones, his friends & admirers. I just believe in facing facts. I hope Pete rests in peace at last.
Thank you for how you feel about him, but you speak as if you know the facts. As if you were there that night. As if you were in his mind and his heart. You weren’t. None of us were. None of us can claim to know the facts.
Again, sorry, but I myself am physically disabled & in significant pain most of the time. But I have never, ever considered suicide. So all those problems you listed are just excuses, nothing more.
That may be true for YOU. It isn’t for everybody.
I had just turned 20 when my mom called me at work to tell me “that guy you like” from “Alias Smith and Jones” had killed himself. I was stunned and didn’t want to believe. To this day it still bothers me. I actually have the show on my TV (thanks to Hulu) right now and I still cannot imagine this guy on the screen so full of life, being gone. I’m still drawn to him … sounds funny from this 65-year-old woman now. Pete Duel was the best of the best. An incredible talent. I’m glad to come across this site because I know just how many others felt as I have felt. Thanks, Pete, for what you gave us all. You are still missed.
I know! It’s truly odd, how many of us STILL think about him though years have gone by.
True. Sad loss. Enigmatic actor. Great he’s remembered now.
I just saw Pete Duel on a Gidget episode & lit up the screen. I went online to see what else he had done & ended up here.
Damn, I wish he had lived longer.
Hi, I am glad that I have found more websites dedicated to the late Pete Duel – handsome, talented, and taken from this earth at a young age. I have been curious about Pete Duel, who he was. I actually found out about him by reading info on actor Ben Murphy (another gorgeous actor who I am also a fan of) and scrolled down to a show title that just get jumping out, and that some have said was popular – Alias Smith and Jones. So I have bought The series on dvd from seasons 1-3 to satisfy my curiousity. Currently on season 2, and counting and to be honest, I think Roger Davies (who took over as Hannibal Hayes) isn’t bad, however he doesn’t seem to have that connection with Ben Murphy like Pete did. And i don’t think that I am the only one that feels this way. I think it is fair to say that Pete had a lot going for him, but he didn’t realise it. I would of loved to see more of his talents. People would kill to have the exciting career that he had, but unfortunately didn’t last. I guess he felt plagued by his demons too much, as I am sure most of us have felt from time to time. Very talented. I miss him, and no I didn’t know him personally, but he had this special energy that he gave off in his acting roles, and what he did off camera also. I have nothing else to say but RIP Pete Duel, you will always be the original Hannibal Hayes, peace and love wherever you are.
What I think is nice is all the recent comments. I was pretty young when Alias Smith and Jones came out but I remember it well. It was popular with my older siblings. So just this weekend I was watching one of the channels in Phoenix, either Cozi or MeTV and saw that it was coming on. It brought back so many memories that it prompted me to research what happened to Pete, as I too was told he committed suicide back then. So my question for any of you is does anyone know if he sought help for depression? I know much progress was made since the early 70s but it sure sounds like a classic case. Very tragic
Thank you, Mark. There is no record that Peter sought help for his depression. Particularly 45 years ago, such a plea for help would have been viewed as weak. Further, however, he was an epileptic and the drug he took to control seizures (Dilantin) was known (and is still known) to cause depression and suicide. Coupled with the pressures of his career, his volatile relationship with Dianne, his alcoholism, and his sensitivity, he simply could not battle his way out of it. Or so he believed. Apparently.
Oh good heavens, knowing this the man didn’t have much of a chance. That is so sad but thank you for the response. There is something good though: I have a chance to enjoy his work again after all this time. It was only by chance I saw the series being broadcasted on syndication and I am going to order the series on DVD. I can better understand his talent now and enjoy and view in his memory
about the same time my dad was having emotional problems and he went to an old army vet psychiatrist. the medications were very rudimentary back then. after about 8 therapy sessions the shrink told dad when he felt sad or anxious he should have a drink. my mom thinks that shrink produced an iatrogenic alcoholic.
Like many of the people on this page I too was a teenager when Pete Duel died. I remember my Dad telling my Mum not to tell me as I had Mock Exams after the Christmas Holidays. I found out and was so sorry,for both Pete having deciding to take such a tragic decision, and, the fans who admired him so much. I still pray for his soul every night and know that he is with God, in peace and Love. He now knows how much he was loved and admired. RIP Pete Duel, always a STAR.
you r right it’s Christmas day and I’m reading how much Pete touched people I look on this site quite a lot and still se there is still people that speak from the heart genuine people
My sister barb and I watched alias smith and Jones religiously fully enjoying the program. I was watching gidget this morning and saw peter playing sally fields brother in law. What a tragedy so many years ago. If he could have known how we all felt of him. So very sad and a waste of a beautiful life. Handsome man gone way to soon!
I remember when Pete came to visit his high school. We were all so excited to see him walking down the hall. It was so cool, a big movie star, from Penfield, NY. His dad was our school Doctor. We were sad to hear what had happened.
I was 14 when he died. I loved him so much. I heard my parents in the kitchen talking and my mother said “did you see in the paper that movie star that killed himself” in my ripe old age of 14 I thought oh it’s my luck it’s Peter Duel, I picked up the paper and there it was!!!! I was so upset, I cut his picture out of movie magazine and had lots of them. Two years after he died I was still looking at them. Finally one day I thought “the heck with this” I tore them all up. I guess I was mad at him for killing himself. I even thought suicide was the way to go, I mean he did it!!! I did let him and the thought of him go finally but he impacted more teenagers than he would ever know.
I was also a young teen, 12 yo at the time. Pete Duel was my first celebrity crush and I absolutely adored him and couldn’t wait to see him on TV each week. His death had closely followed the untimely passing of Tim, a 7th grade classmate who died in a freak accident on Halloween night. While I knew neither of them well, I felt each loss so deeply and so personally. With Tim, it was my first shocking realization that kids were mortal. With Pete, I realized that anyone you knew or cared about, could be taken from you. Or worse, that they could willingly choose to give up what had been taken from Tim. I felt such powerful, raw emotions — pain and sorrow, bewilderment and loss — life suddenly seemed so unpredictable and fragile. Eventually I realized that he must have struggled with mental illness. But at the time, I also felt hurt and betrayed by Pete’s death. Francis is right — many teens were impacted by him. And are still thinking about him nearly 50 years later.
I can totally relate: I too was 14 at the time and loved Peter Duel. I still have an autographed picture of him and a letter his publicist sent out to his fan club members about his “accidental” death. I was heartbroken for years. I have actually dated two men that could have passed for his twin. What a shame he was such a tortured soul.
I was told I was going to grow up and like Pete. I was a fan of Alias Smith and Jones too. Very sad. Like him I have dreams of being an actor but unlike him all I have been able to achieve is being an extra in various different TV shows like Grimm. Sometimes I wonder if I will end up like Pete also
i remember watching alias smith and jones when i was 10 and loved it so much i remember even at the age i was hearing of Pete Duels death i was sad i have just found a link that i can watch the series again and I’m loving it again as it was yesterday reading up on his life makes me feel a bit sad RIP
I was 12 at the time – my family was in California at that time on vacation, the University of Michigan was playing in the rose bowl – we were on a bus on the way to tour Universal Studios where I had hoped to see handsome Peter Duel – over the radio I heard the unbelievable news that Peter was dead 😭 – I had this feeling inside my soul that he knew I was coming and killed himself – ain’t that crazy? I think it has affected my life –
I was 17 when Pete left us and have never forgotten the song he sang (Simple Gifts) in the Alias Smith and Jones episode “The Posse that wouldn’t quit”. He gave us so much and I truly feel in my heart that it was an accident which robbed us of him. He is one of the unique talents that only come along once in a blue moon, but leave a lasting impression on us all. Long may he live through our memories of him. Peace and Love.
He wants the cutest and funniest “cowboy-rascal” of them all! I wish Swedish television would air the episodes with Pete… Don’t know If they ever did, since I lived in Portugal then…
Sincerely hope that he is less troubled and a log happier now, wherever he is!
I loved watching Alias Smith & Jones. It was my favorite show. I had a huge crush on Pete Duel. I was devastated when I found out he had shot himself. I cried for a long time and I will always remember him. I was a teenager but can still remember him clearly. I thought he was so hot!
Alcohol and depression is not a good mix..too bad the help he needed was not available as it is now. Glad to see so many people loved him. Bless his soul.
In my youth in the late 70s when we played Cowboys & Indians, I was always Hannibal Heyes (my friend chose Kid Curry because of the quick draw). The 2 seasons with Pete Duel as Heyes are still regularly in my DVD player, and it brings me back to the good old times as a kid. The third season with Roger Davis was and is for me still an insult — for the one and only true Hannibal Heyes is aka Pete Duel. Thanks, Pete. I’ll hope you rest in peace. My kids will also see your legacy. —Dreeke hit Limburg from The Netherlands
Peter also played the brother-in-law on the TV series Gidget starring Sally Field.
How wonderful to see so many people still thinking fondly of this wonderful actor. I’ve just finished his biography which is a real page turner and eye opener to how mental health issues were dealt with years ago. What a shame there was not the back up in place we all take for granted now. In today’s society there is no shame in admitting you need help. How many actors have returned to successful careers after rehab?
If only Pete had reached out to someone. If only he could have been born in later years when the stigma was no more.
Pete, I hope you now realise what a success you were and how loved you were and still are by many.
Wow, just found this website. Alias Smith and Jones was my favorite show growing up. I couldn’t wait to watch it each week. I had such a crush on both Pete and Ben Murphy. Pete made the Hannibal Heyes character come alive and after all these years people still remember and have such fond memories. Just Wow!
RIP Pete,
Having nearly destroyed my life with that accursed substance, but having thankfully recovered, I can share in some of your thoughts. My brother also lost his most promising life at 47 through the same thing. Your series was great and well-remembered. Am watching the last episode Pete starred in as I’m typing this. RIP Peter.
I’m shocked ! Out of nowhere this memory emerged of a man that I was so entranced by. I was so young and had a wicked crush on Peter Duel. I was 12 or 13 when he took his life . So many years ago❗️ I’m wondering why I am thinking of this now. I’m so surprised to see all these fans who still remember him How beautiful ! If only he knew how much he was loved ❤️❗️
I was thinking about them too! I really liked the series as a kid too. Never knew he was dead either. So the series ran after his death? He was a good actor..so sad he couldn’t see it either.
Wow, I am so touched to see all these comments. I was only eleven when Pete passed away, but I was a HUGE fan of his. I adored “Alias Smith and Jones”. Even as a kid I could see that Pete had enormous acting talent. I anticipated that the show would be a big hit and he would go on to much bigger and better things. My parents knew I was a big fan and did not try to hide from me that he had passed or how. Somehow it wasn’t a surprise to me. My mother later told me that she she remembered chatting with me one time, before he passed, about why I was a fan, and I told her it was because you could see there were serious depths to him despite the rather lighthearted nature of the show. When he passed I was very sad, and though I don’t remember telling her this, she said I told her that I was not surprised by how he died because he had always looked so sad to me. I still think of him often but until today I didn’t think hardly ANYone remembered him. I’m SO GLAD to see he is remembered with love and affection, and I wish he could know how many people he really touched with his talent. I hope he is at peace.
i loved pete duel and alias smith and jones i stopped watching the series when the new guy filled pete s place just couldnt get into it anymore i was about 16 when he died i was devastated its a pity he didnt c in himself wot his fans saw,i had a big pic of him in his blue shirt with ben murphy on my bedroom wall he will always b in my heart
such a waste of a young life. I watched the series all the time in the 70s, could not believe he was dead. rest in peace.
Was in love with pete, as a school girl, couldnt wait to see the show each week still all these years later im now 57 still remember pete, happy birthday for 24th feb, always a fan of yours, if only you knew how much you were loved by all your fans.maybe the demons in your heart were too strong to fight anymore xxx
Jann…I thought he was my soulmate as a school girl. I couldn’t wait to see him every week too. I am 58 now, but still remember how I had pictures of Pete and horses in my room. I was on a paper route with my dad and saw in the paper he had died, I was crushed. I don’t think he knew how many of us were out there supporting him and loving him at the time. Hopefully he knows now.
I was only 3 when Pete Duel died but I remember “Alias Smith and Jones” being on TV every week in my childhood as I watched with my father (great memories). Flicking through channels I recently started watching re-runs and it was only when watching S2 Ep19 that I realised that “Smith’s” character had changed actors. After a Google search I am now aware for this change, nothing against Roger Davies but this part always was and always will belong to Pete Dual. Of course this series was only so successful because of the duo on screen partnership and for this Ben Murphy must be remembered as the perfect match in this team. I will watch this again and again as childhood memories come flooding back each time. Why can’t they make them like this anymore? R.I.P. Pete and thank you to you both Pete and Mr. Murphy.
When Pete Duel died, a part of me did as well. When Alias Smith and Jones came on, I was there watching it. I was totally devastated. I cried like a bay when I heard the news. I was nearly 18 years of age and here I am now 62 and still think the world of they guy. I love watching his brother and he brings back memories of his brother and what I thought was the best western on t.v. Rest in peace, Mr. Peter Duel. You are gone, but not forgotten!!!
I’m watching the re-runs of Smith & Jones and have googled how Pete Duel died as I couldn’t remember. My whole family watched it in the 70’s as we loved westerns. I was upset when he died, he was talented and handsome and had a future. The series was fun to watch, my dear mum and dad enjoyed it too. Found it hard to believe that the duo didn’t get on with each other.
Hi Kay. Thank you for the remembrances. I wanted to add that they did get along; they just weren’t friends in real life, but on set they got along just fine. -Laura
I’m sad watching Smith and Jones with Roger Davis but the role belongs to Pete Duel all these years later and still miss him
I grew upwatching pete duel in the 60s and idolised to the the extent of having a huge poster in my room. I always wanted to be him and loved his fun loving ways.Life can cut us down so easily and reading the back story to his life all these years later it saddens me greatly. I will all remember you as you were ,rest easy my friend. Alastair bell
Loved this show when I was in, about, 2nd grade. I remembered it as funny, with charming (crush-worthy) young men. And until today, I never understood why my favorite show ended up disappearing… I was too young, and believe it or not… had thought about this show ever since. At nearly 52, all I could recall was that it had “Smith” in title. Thank you Google and YouTube for answering the question that younger me never stopped asking: “Why?”
So sad, if true, that he couldn’t see his success. 44-ish yrs. later, Pete Deuel and his tv partner stay stuck in my mind. RIP
Therese, I am a few years older than you and remember watching the show, the name of the show etched in my memory. I like you had a crush on Pete Duel and had to do a bit of research when I thought about the show. I was crushed by another artist’s death, Jim Croce, I remember crying when I heard he died. It is so sad to see people with so much potential, so much talent, die before really showing their full potential. Sandy
I was in 7th grade when Pete Duel died. I with everyone, devasted to hear his young life was over. I heard Don Mclean’s American Pie was playing. I always think of Pete when I hear that song. Freddie Prinze another gone too soon.
I loved Pete Duel and watching ‘Alias Smith & Jones’ when it was first broadcast in the Uk, absolutely LOVED Pete Duel and I was only 10 years old at the time, I will never forget hearing the news that he had died , I hung to every word on the tv news and in the papers trying to find out what actually happened and why , Only recently have I been able to make sense of it all but there hasn’t been a New Years Eve since that I haven’t thought about him and what happened, I think alcohol is an evil this world can do without, I feel sure that without the drink factor he would still be with us today and would have gone on to more shows and movies, his acting and comedic timing were amazing. His star would have shone brightly. Still miss you Pete but thanks for the memories !
brilliant actor.bought the series and can watch it anytime. so sad he made the series so great and then left….
I was too young to have witnessed the career and life of Pete –
my curiosity was stirred after watching the movie, “Chisum” in which his brother Geoff starred.
I made my way here and am touched by the true feelings of sorrow and regret at the tragic loss of this talented but tortured soul. We all can relate in our own way to the reality of depression either within our own self or by witnessing the disease in a loved one.
My condolences to all who cherished his life. R. I. P.
I am an old lady now but remember watching Smith and Jones when I was young.I thought he was lovely and a good actor, I was shocked and amazed when I heard he had commited suicide, what a waste of a lovely person.I am watching the re-runs now and still think the same.God rest him .
Pete Duel was and will always be my favorite of the cowboys of that era. I was a small kid of 7 yrs old but I enjoyed his acting. I saw almost everything he acted in. I loved him on the Virginian. Those were the best days! So sad he felt so much, and had felt no hope for his future. He brought so many happy moments to his fans yet he failed to grasp a shred of happiness in his life – shows us that fame and fortune doesn’t give a person lasting happiness. Maybe one day the answers will come forth and settle these matters…So sad….
I was about 10 and I could not wait for the next episode of Alias Smith and Jones to come on when I saw the news and was heart broken was when I found out life was so precious wasn’t long after when Chico and the Man star Freddie Prinze sr. Took his life not the same circumstances but was the same outcome. Didn’t know until I got a little older depression could kill faster than cancer. R.I.P. Peter Duel and Freddie Prinze.
Just sitting in my lounge after a really agrivating day going from south to east London and back with the car. It took me 2 hrs and a parts to be ordered. What a waste of an afternoon. Switched on the TV and my favourite TV cowboy program from being a kid comes on. “Alias Smith & Jones”. Coming through the starting music I remembered all the words. That’s how it’s stuck there. Great thing about the iPad. What are they doing now. A great shame Pete took his life. “Depression” stole him of the success he truly had. Drink is the by product as are drugs. You made my miserable day a bright one. I will have a drink tonight. Thanks for The series. JKB
Pete had no idea how famous he truly was. Way down here in tiny New Zealand, we loved him and still do to this day. We often see re-runs of his shows with alias smith and jones and today I saw him in a re-run of the Virginian as the Good hearted bad man. He was great, he stole the show, as an actor he was supurb, he never lived long enough to see just how famous and how much loved he really was by everyone who saw him on screen, t.v. d.v.d. etc., He had the X factor!
I used to love Alias Smith And Jones and remember a news Flash coming on the TV informing us of his death. I watched it with Roger Davis playing Smith but always preferred Pete. You’d never have known him and Ben Murphy didn’t get on. I like to think that if he had lived he would have been a massive star and Quentin Tarantino would’ve signed him up for something or another. Bye Pete. Thanks for the show.
Just watching one of the re-runs now and thought I’d google Pete Duel to see what he was doing now! Sad to hear of his early death, although I do remember the guy replacing him, in those days I never knew why.
That’s exactly what iv just done… flicking through tv channels thoghtiwould see what Pete duel was doing and what he looked like now Didn’t realise he had died so young in sad circumstances. He will be forever young RIP
Pete had a charismatic persona on screen that is not seen these days much.
I was only a teenager when he died, but I always remember his performances with sadness , knowing he had unseen demons that couldn’t be conquered.
Great actor.
I’m at home on AL and I’m flicking through the TV channel and I see Alias Smith and Jones. Oh no, could it possibly be my Pete Duel can I bear to see him on television again after all these years? I loved him I was so devastated that night when I heard the news, I look at him now on the TV and I can only see a very handsome, gorgeous man that broke my heart all those years ago. Was he really that good looking? OMG he was. What a great shame and one so young. He was a very beautiful person I remember reading his poems, he was so sensitive. Pete Duel as beautiful as ever, long live the memories.
I was a teenager when Pete took his life, I adored this man, avidly watching every episode, collecting posters and pictures from Jackie magazines, it broke my heart to hear of his death, now alias Smith and Jones is back on the television (and rightly so) I find myself glued to the television once again, and have even bought dvd s of the series, this man was so special to so many people, he will always be remembered and carried in peoples hearts forever, God bless Pete I hope you are happy now and have found peace at last.
I always loved watching Alias smith and Jones with Pete Duel on – I still have this one article about when Pete had left out an ‘E” out of his name to make it short from Deuel to Duel….I’m still doing just alittle bit of family research on my family last name which is also Deuel and just found out that way down in the ancestry line I’m related to Pete Duel……….I was in my teen years when Pete had passed and Rest In Peace Pete
That’s so cool! I hope your family found peace with his death. I loved watching him on Gidget.
Rest in Peace. Broke my heart on hearing of your death. You will never be forgotten xxx.
I was a teen when Pete Duel died, and I thoroughly enjoyed “Alias Smith & Jones”. Thought Peter was a terrific actor. With looks and talent, I would have figured him to be offered a lot of parts on movies and TV. Sad that personal demons are often too powerful to overcome happiness. My condolences to family and especially to Diana Ray.