Pete Duel: A Biography

 

After reading some really negative reviews, I have decided to write this review and place it on my site.

 

This book for me was a real eye opener.  It is told by memories of his family, his friends and colleagues.  The material included cannot be disputed.  They are memories of people that knew Peter best.  I did not know him or claim to know him and for me, any information regarding his life and tragic death was something that I was truly grateful for. 

 

Not hearing about his death back in 1971, I found out the hard way.  I had tuned in to Alias Smith and Jones and discovered that Peter’s character, Hannibal Heyes, aka Joshua Smith had been replaced by another actor.  Very upset, I went searching for any and all information that I could find on the subject.  I had come up empty handed except for a few television review books described what had happened in a few short sentences.  Well, I wanted to learn more and I couldn’t find anything to help me. 

 

I did discover in 2005, two Internet sites that helped me solve the mystery, but it still left me wanting more.  Paul Green’s book was both a revelation and a Godsend for me.  I can describe the book as everything you always wanted to know about Peter but were afraid to ask.    It is well written and concise. 

 

It is authorized by his sister Pamela and is not a scathing unauthorized mess of negative stories and ideas.  Paul has included the good and the bad of Peter’s life, if people just took the time to read these pages and understand a little of what is being presented.    

 

I cannot understand what some fans are saying about the author and this book.  Is it possible that we were reading the same information? Is it possible for fans to contradict what family and friends who have been close to him are saying?  I don’t understand. 

 

I’ll admit that I have no experience with an alcoholic relative, boyfriend or husband and those that do should have a clear picture of what was happening with this man instead of trying to put him down or analyze just what the author is saying here.  I have however, had experiences with depression and epilepsy and seen firsthand what they can do.  In this way I can empathize with Peter’s situation and can finally put him in a positive light after all these years.  The book is final closure for me as I’m sure for a lot of others who feel as I do. 

 

This book hasn’t changed the way I feel about Peter Duel, in fact this information has given me the respect that he has deserved and never received, even to this day.  He is still a talented handsome man and a brilliant actor whose work I’d admire and enjoy.  Thank you, Paul, for writing an excellent book and a job well done.  Please know that it is appreciated.

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