Daniel Charles Royal

Born June 24, 1943, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Danny was the son of Dorothy (Dot) Royal and Daniel Charles Royal Sr. From an early age, he showed the strong work ethic and commitment that would define his life, delivering newspapers by bicycle in his hometown of Selma, Alabama, and earning the rank of Eagle Scout.

Danny built a remarkable career in television and cinema, serving the public through decades of work that reflected steady leadership and dedication to the communities he served. He rose to General Manager of WETV Channel 30 and WABE 90.1 in Atlanta, helping shape public broadcasting in the city he called home. Danny also co-created, directed and produced, Cinema Showcase, a nationally syndicated television show in the late 70s.

He also brought an entrepreneurial spirit to the entertainment industry. Through his own startup company, Danny pioneered the modern-day movie "junket," enhancing the marketing of major Hollywood releases and helping create a model that became a standard part of film promotion. He also founded the Atlanta Cinema Club, a sought-after private club that offered advance screenings and special events for its members. He was a proud member of the Directors Guild of America and received numerous local Emmy awards during his career.

Beyond his professional life, Danny was a long-time volunteer and tournament director supporting local charities through professional golf, including the BellSouth Classic, Nationwide Championship, Sarazen World Championship, and the PGA Tour Championship.

Most of all, Danny loved his family. He offered never-ending support and was always there, steady, dependable, and fully present for the people he loved. He especially cherished time with his beloved wife, Barbara, and their family, whether cheering on the Auburn Tigers or spending days at the beach, two of the things he loved most.

Danny is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Royal; his sons Daniel Charles Royal III and his wife Robin of Trophy Club, Texas, and their daughter Aubrey; William Brennan Royal and his wife Jodie of Sandy Springs, Georgia, and their children Piper and Alex; and Jonathan Matthew Royal and his wife Barbara of Chattanooga, Tennessee, and their children Allison and Meghan. He is also survived by his siblings Mary Susan Elley of Gilbert, Arizona, and David Royal of Montgomery, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his brother William Royal.




A graveside service will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. CST at Greenwood Serenity Memorial Gardens, 909 Lincoln Rd, Montgomery, AL 36109. In lieu of flowers, friends and family may consider a donation to Northwest Presbyterian Church in Atlanta, Georgia.