Dan Burns is a fictional character from the movie "Dan in Real Life," portrayed by actor Steve Carell. He is a widowed father of three daughters who struggles to navigate family life while dealing with his own personal challenges. The film explores themes of love, family dynamics, and the complexities of relationships. In the story, Dan works as a newspaper advice columnist, offering insights on love and life. His character is relatable, showcasing the difficulties of parenting and the search for happiness after loss. The film combines humor and heartfelt moments, making Dan a memorable character in contemporary cinema.