Danny Duran, a respected entertainment publicist for more than 25 years who founded boutique agency ddPR, died Wednesday after an eight-month battle with cancer. He was 58.
Duran started his career at Walt Disney Studios and then joined Sandra Bullock’s production company, Fortis Films. Under Brigid Walsh, he handled publicity for Bullock as well as for talent including Eric Roberts, Bill Pullman, Chris McDonald, and Ron Livingston.
In 2000, he founded ddPR, launching the firm with Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment as a client. He helped the division transition from VHS to DVD and then Blu-ray, supporting the release of titles including “The Lion King,” “Snow White” and “The Little Mermaid.”
Duran and ddPR worked with a wide range of film and talent clients over the years, including Roadside Attractions, Savannah Entertainment, Sony Pictures, Disney, Universal, and Lionsgate. He also handled personal publicity for Jon Hamm, Beth Grant, and other actors, becoming valued for his personal approach.
“Danny was a lovely, special friend for over 20 years. He helped me navigate the public relations in Hollywood in the most wonderfully kind and understated ways. I’ll always remember the sparkle in his eyes and his sweet smile. I’m so saddened by this loss, not just for me, but for our community. My husband. Michael Chieffo, joins me in gratitude for the happy memories we shared with Danny. We shall love him always,” said Beth Grant.
“Danny was a tireless champion — for his clients, the causes he believed in, and the friends, family and colleagues fortunate enough to be in his orbit,” said Amelia McPartlon Rogers, executive VP of Content Strategy and Integration Marketing, Lionsgate Motion Picture Group. “His belief in me early in my career helped lay the foundation for my future, and I will be forever grateful for his encouragement and loving friendship.”
“Danny was a best friend and a huge inspiration to me and many others in the publicity field,” said Brandy Fons, CEO of Fons, PR Inc. “We worked closely together during my time at The Walt Disney Studios, which evolved into a deep friendship. Danny was a big part of major milestones in my life and career. He was respected and beloved by press, fellow publicists, and studios. He had a beautiful generous spirit, and I will miss him greatly.”
Duran was born in L.A. and graduated from CSU Bakersfield with a degree in Marketing.
He was a longtime supporter and board member of The Trevor Project, an organization dedicated to crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ+ youth. Donations may be made to The Trevor Project.
He is survived by his husband, Blain; his sister, Daniella; brother-in-law Kevin; nieces Alanna and Isabelle; and parents Marie and Danny Sr.
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