Biography

Daniel John Kearney is a prolific independent actor, producer, writer, and filmmaker, best known for his work in the horror genre. A versatile performer, Daniel is also a semi-retired singer and professionally trained dancer, specializing in fusion styles of pop, jazz, and funk, with a self-developed interpretive style heavily influenced by Michael Jackson, James Brown, and Jackie Wilson.

Daniel made his film debut in 2018 and soon shifted his focus fully to filmmaking, dedicating himself to bringing original characters and stories to life within the horror space, both in front of and behind the camera. Widely regarded by peers as one of the most hardworking and self-motivated independent producers in the genre, he has helped helm and support a wide range of horror features alongside numerous filmmakers.

Considered a method actor, Daniel is known for his range across comedy, drama, and deeply eccentric roles. He was discovered by scream queen Felissa Rose (Sleepaway Camp). Notable projects he has produced and/or appeared in include Wolf Hollow (2022), Late Checkout (2022), Watchdog (2023), Sean Whalen’s directorial debut Crust (2024), Grind (2025), The Boy From Below (2025), The Last Footprint (2025), and horror icon Hannah Fierman’s directorial debut The Events Surrounding a Peeping Tom (2025).

He stars in the highly anticipated horror anthology Deadly Endings (2026) and appears as Mayor Augusto in the upcoming horror-comedy creature feature Bunker Heights (2026), directed by Drew Fortier. As of 2026, Daniel is slated to make his directorial debut with The Itinerant and The Malakai, two original stories he created and wrote, on which he will also serve as actor and producer.
- IMDb mini biography by: Chris Bevins (Producer)