Tanner Smith, an autism awareness advocate and fan favorite from Netflix's Love on the Spectrum, has candidly shared why he stepped away from the show before its fourth season. In a heartfelt video posted on April 2, 2025, Smith revealed that he is not ready for a serious relationship or marriage, making it unfair to continue on a dating program designed to help others with autism find love.
Profile Summary
Tanner Smith was born on November 23, 1998, in Saint Matthews, South Carolina. He is 27 years old as of April 2026, with a zodiac sign of Sagittarius. He stands as a white American male with brown hair and blue eyes. His parents are Mark and Nicci Smith, and he has three siblings: Taylor, Madeline (known as Midge), and Maverick. Tanner is single and resides in Clemson, South Carolina.
Why Tanner Smith Walked Away
On April 2, 2025, Tanner Smith shared a candid video on TikTok and Instagram explaining his departure from Love on the Spectrum, a show he appeared on for three seasons. He stated, "Guys, I am going to tell you why I am not in season 4... I have figured something out about myself, and I want to tell you what it is. Guys, I'm not ready for a serious relationship, and I'm definitely not ready to get married yet. And since that's my truth... It wouldn't be fair or honest for me to be on a show about dating." He added that he wanted others who are ready for love to have the opportunity.
Early Life and Education
Tanner Smith was diagnosed with autism, sensory integration dysfunction, and auditory processing disorder at age four. His parents began interventions early, including ABA therapy at home. He attended Glenforest School in Columbia, South Carolina, graduating in 2017. He then enrolled in Clemson University's ClemsonLIFE program, a four-year post-secondary program for students with intellectual disabilities, graduating in 2022.
Career and Rise to Fame
Before reality TV, Tanner worked as a receptionist and cleaner at Delish Sisters Restaurant and at Chick-fil-A. He gained fame on Love on the Spectrum Season 2, where he dated Kate Liggitt and later Shyann, though neither worked out. In Season 3, he formed a strong bond with Callie Truelove, but they remained friends. He has since become an autism advocate, appearing on The Kelly Clarkson Show and presenting at the 2025 Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards. He also hosts YouTube series Tanner Tries and Tanner's Tales. In 2026, the Tanner Smith Endowment for ClemsonLIFE was established to support students with intellectual disabilities.
Social Media and Brand Influencing
Tanner is a brand ambassador for Wable, an app for neurodivergent individuals. He has collaborated with brands like Run Club GVL, Brightside Cafe, and Vineyard Vines. His online presence includes YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, where he shares his journey and advocacy work.
FAQs
- Who is Tanner Smith? He is an American autism advocate and reality TV star.
- How old is Tanner Smith? He is 27 years old as of April 2026.
- What condition does Tanner Smith have? He has autism, sensory integration dysfunction, and auditory processing disorder.
- Is Tanner high-functioning? Yes, he is considered high-functioning.
- Who are Tanner Smith's parents? Mark and Nicci Smith.
- How many siblings does Tanner Smith have? Three: Taylor, Midge, and Maverick.
- Where does Tanner Smith live now? He lives independently in Clemson, South Carolina.
- Are Tanner and Callie still together? No, they are close friends.
- What happened with Tanner on Love on the Spectrum? He left the show because he is not ready for a serious relationship.
