Geoffrey Deuel, a popular television and film actor of the 1960s and ’70s, has passed away at 81. Perhaps most well known for his beloved portrayal of Billy the Kid opposite John Wayne in Chisum or his time on the long-running soap opera The Young and The Restless, Deuel was also the younger brother of another actor, Peter Duel, who died tragically from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in 1971.
The news was confirmed via The Hollywood Reporter, and also conveyed in a Facebook post on Deuel’s account in a statement made by his wife, Jacqueline. “At midnight last night Geoffrey passed away and is with Peter,” she wrote. “God took my ‘knight in shining armor’ gently.” According to THR’s reporting, Deuel died on Sunday, December 22, while in hospice care in Largo, Florida after enduring a battle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Who Were Geoffrey Deuel and Peter Deul?

Born on January 17, 1943, in New York, Deuel is perhaps most well known for appearing as Dave Campbell in the long-running soap opera The Young and The Restless from 1973 to 1977. But he also amassed numerous other credits on popular television series at the time, including The Monkees, The Flying Nun, Mod Squad, Mission: Impossible, and The F.B.I. In 1970, Geoffrey Deuel appeared alongside Hollywood icon John Wayne in Chisum, a film MovieWeb listed in the top ten best Westerns of the ’70s, and one of the most re-watchable films in Wayne’s repertoire. Deuel also shared the screen with his brother Peter Duel in a 1971 episode of the NBC series The Name of the Game.

Related

The Best Westerns of the 1970s, Ranked

The Old, Wild West had a revival in the 1970s thanks to movies like The Shootist and Blazing Saddles, but which cowboys still stake their claim?

That year would unfortunately prove to be his elder brother’s last, as Duel died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound on December 31, 1971, at his home in the Hollywood Hills. Deuel and his older brother Duel were close and had a lot of love for one another, as evidenced in the above clip the younger sibling made in honor of the 50th anniversary of Peter’s passing. Peter Duel is perhaps most famous for originating the role of Hannibal Heyes, the starring role on the ABC Western about two outlaw cousins trying to reform, Alias Smith and Jones.
In the official obituary posted to EverLoved.com, the following was said about Deuel:

Geoffrey lived a vibrant life that touched many hearts with his kindness, love, and caring personality.

Geoffrey’s undeniable talent made it possible for him to grace our screens in a variety of roles in both the television and film industry. His remarkable acting skills and unforgettable performances brought joy and entertainment to many households. One significant highlight of his illustrious career was his role as Dave Campbell in the renown soap opera, ‘The Young and the Restless,’ where he captivated countless viewers with his remarkable portrayal of the character.

Geoffrey was a man who cherished the love and warmth of family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Jacqueline, with whom he shared numerous precious years. His memory is also held dearly by the many friends and admirers he made during his lifetime. Geoffrey was predeceased by his dear brother, Peter Ellstrom Deuel, a renowned actor whose legacy also left a significant mark in the entertainment industry.

Geoffrey Deuel lived a prosperous life distinguished by his notable accomplishments, the love he gave, and the love he received from those around him. His kindness, his significant contributions to the acting world, and his caring personality will forever echo in the hearts of the many lives he touched. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing that his legacy will forever remain alive and cherished.

Geoffrey Deuel was born on January 17, 1943, and died on December 22, 2024.