Career
Born Valerie Harrison in London, she spent her early childhood in Spain, but returned to England to become a student at Malvern Girls" College. After graduating, she joined the British Broadcasting Corporation drama department, working in television production before deciding to become an actress, joining the Royal Repertory Company. She moved into film acting in her early 20s.
Her first film appearance was in a minor role in the 1954 Italian film Maddalena.
After a role in the British film, she moved to Hollywood. Her best-remembered roles during this period were in western films such as Jubal in 1956 opposite Glenn Ford and Decision at Sundown opposite Randolph Scott in 1957.
She also appeared in the science fiction film. Critic Gene Blottner says that French"s performances in this era were "sultry, exuding raw sex".
Her television roles included episode #61 of Have Gun – Will Travel, and The Prisoner, episode: "Living In Harmony".
She later appeared in daytime television shows, including two roles on The Edge of Night, The Nurses, and (briefly) All My Children.