Daniel Duval's early life was marked by challenges, as he was placed in care from a young age, making it difficult for him to develop emotional balance. As a teenager, he was forced to learn a trade, and as an apprentice-joiner, he became ill and was hospitalized. It was during his time in the hospital that he discovered his true calling, thanks to a chance encounter with the producer of the religious program "Le Jour du Seigneur".
Sharing a room with the producer, Duval found himself drawn to the world of television and film direction, and he threw himself into learning this new trade with renewed enthusiasm. He soon became a skilled TV director, movie director, and actor, with acting ultimately becoming his primary focus.
Duval's gaunt figure and emaciated face seemed to predispose him to playing dark, complex characters, often with romantic and self-destructive tendencies, but always with a violent edge. He tended to bring these character traits to life, which sometimes got him into trouble and hurt his career.
In 1987, Duval's personal struggles landed him in jail, although he was eventually released due to lack of evidence. He made a triumphant comeback in 1996 with two particularly memorable performances: the father in "Will It Snow for Christmas?" and the sadistic lover in "Beware of My Love".
Throughout his life, Duval was involved with several notable women, including Haydée Politoff and Anna Karina. He also has a son, Cyril Duval, who has followed in his footsteps and become an assistant director.
