Geoffrey Deuel, celebrated for his portrayal of Billy the Kid in the John Wayne film "Chisum," has passed away at 81.
His death occurred in hospice care in Largo, Florida, due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Hollywood Reporter reported.
Born on January 17, 1943, in Lockport, New York, Deuel was raised in nearby Penfield. His parents, Ellsworth, a doctor, and Lillian, a nurse, nurtured a caring home environment. He completed his early education at Penfield High School before pursuing higher education at Ithaca College and Syracuse University.
In 1965, Geoffrey made a significant move to Hollywood, aiming to carve out a career in acting. His television debut came a year later in an episode of "12 O'Clock High," marking the start of a promising career in the entertainment industry. He soon became a familiar face on television, appearing in shows like "The Monkees," "The Invaders," and "The FBI."
His big break came when he landed the role of Billy the Kid in the 1970 western movie "Chisum." This role introduced him to audiences as a particularly vengeful version of the infamous outlaw. His performance in "Chisum" not only kicked off his film career but also made him a household name among Western genre fans.
Interestingly, acting was a mutual passion within the Deuel family. Geoffrey's older brother, Peter Duel, was also an actor, best known for his role in the TV series "Alias Smith and Jones." The brothers shared the screen in the television series "The Name of the Game" in February 1971, showcasing their on-screen chemistry shortly before Peter's tragic death by suicide on New Year's Eve 1971.
Reflecting on his brother's death in a 2018 interview, Geoffrey mentioned, "You don't ever get over a shock like that." His wife, Jacqueline Deuel, added, "He and Peter were very close. They really loved each other and took care of each other," highlighting the deep bond the brothers shared throughout their lives.
Following his film and TV success, Geoffrey's career took a turn toward theatre in the 1980s. He performed in plays in Tampa's Ybor City and furthered his education by earning a master's degree from the University of South Florida. His passion for education also led him to work as a substitute teacher for many years, sharing his experiences and knowledge with younger generations.
In his personal life, Geoffrey was married to Jacqueline Deuel in 2017 after being together for 40 years. This union marked a significant chapter in his life, filled with shared adventures and mutual support.
Geoffrey Deuel's contribution to film and television has been well-recognized, with Screen Rant ranking his Billy the Kid portrayal as the 10th best onscreen version of the outlaw. His roles, particularly in Westerns, have left a lasting impression on fans and critics alike.
Throughout his extensive career, Geoffrey never lost his love for the creative arts, transitioning smoothly between acting and teaching. His legacy is celebrated by family, friends, and fans who remember him not only for his roles on screen but also for his dedication to education and the arts.
He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline, and his younger sister, Pamela, who together with his extended family and friends, mourn his passing while celebrating the rich, vibrant life he led. Geoffrey Deuel's journey from a small town in New York to the heart of Hollywood, and eventually to teaching and theater, remains an inspiring tale of passion and perseverance in the face of life's many challenges.
