Tanner Buchanan is a prominent American actor known for his versatile roles in television and film. He has garnered attention for his performances in series like “Cobra Kai” and “Designated Survivor,” as well as films such as “He’s All That.” This comprehensive biography delves into his early life, career milestones, personal life, and more.
Early Life and Background
Born on December 8, 1998, in Lima, Ohio, Tanner Emmanuel Buchanan is the son of Steve and Marlona Buchanan. He spent his formative years in Ohio, where he developed an interest in the performing arts. In 2007, at the age of nine, Tanner and his family relocated to Los Angeles to pursue his burgeoning passion for acting.(tanner-buchanan.com)
Career Beginnings
Tanner’s acting journey commenced in 2010 with a guest appearance on the popular television series “Early Interest in Acting
Tanner Buchanan’s journey into the world of acting started at a young age. Growing up in Lima, Ohio, he discovered his passion for the performing arts when he was just a child. His parents noticed his interest in acting and decided to support his dreams. At the age of 9, Tanner and his family made the bold decision to move to Los Angeles, where he could pursue acting more seriously and have access to better opportunities in the entertainment industry.
First Acting Roles
Tanner’s first notable appearance in the entertainment industry came in 2010 when he secured a guest role on the hit TV series “Modern Family.” This role, though small, marked the beginning of Tanner’s acting career and gave him invaluable exposure to the industry. His performance caught the attention of casting agents, which helped him land more roles in the years that followed.
Appearances on Other TV Shows
Following his success in “Modern Family,” Tanner went on to appear in several other well-known TV shows. Some of his early roles include guest appearances on:
- “Grey’s Anatomy” – Tanner made an appearance on this popular medical drama series, showcasing his ability to adapt to different genres of television.
- “Major Crimes” – He landed a recurring role in this police procedural series, gaining more experience in the drama genre.
- “Ghost Ghirls” – In this comedy series, Tanner showed his comedic chops, adding a new dimension to his acting range.
- “Fuller House” – Tanner had a guest role in this popular revival of the classic “Full House” sitcom, allowing him to connect with a nostalgic audience.
These early roles helped Tanner develop his acting skills and establish his presence on television. His talent was recognized by both fans and critics alike, which opened the door for even more significant roles in the years that followed.
Breaking Through with “Designated Survivor”
In 2016, Tanner’s career took a major turn when he was cast as Leo Kirkman in the hit political drama “Designated Survivor.” In the series, Tanner played the son of the President of the United States, portrayed by Kiefer Sutherland. This role was pivotal in introducing Tanner to a wider audience, as it featured him in a high-profile series with a large viewership.
While “Designated Survivor” was an ensemble show, Tanner’s role was essential to the emotional depth of the series, and his performance was widely praised. This exposure led to even more opportunities for Tanner, setting the stage for his career to truly take off. The show ran for three seasons, and Tanner’s portrayal of Leo became a favorite among fans, contributing significantly to his rise in the entertainment industry.
Transitioning to “Cobra Kai”
While Tanner’s role in “Designated Survivor” was an important milestone in his career, it was his role in the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai” that truly catapulted him into stardom. Premiering in 2018, “Cobra Kai” is a continuation of the “Karate Kid” saga, and Tanner was cast as Robby Keene, the son of Johnny Lawrence (played by William Zabka). His character Robby is a pivotal figure in the series, caught between the conflict of his father and his mentor, Daniel LaRusso.
The success of “Cobra Kai” was a game-changer for Tanner. The show’s widespread popularity on Netflix made him an international star, and he gained a loyal fanbase. His portrayal of Robby, a troubled but well-meaning teenager, resonated deeply with audiences. Tanner’s ability to capture the emotional complexity of his character was widely praised, and “Cobra Kai” became one of Netflix’s most-watched shows.
Tanner’s career was firmly established after his success in “Cobra Kai,” leading to further opportunities in both television and film.
Expanding to Film Roles
In addition to his success on television, Tanner Buchanan made his film debut in 2021 with the Netflix romantic comedy “He’s All That.” The film, a gender-swapped remake of the 1999 classic “She’s All That,” featured Tanner as Cameron Kweller, a shy, socially awkward teenager who undergoes a transformative makeover. The movie was another major milestone in Tanner’s career, showcasing his ability to lead a feature film. His role in “He’s All That” helped solidify his versatility as an actor, as he was able to transition from action-packed roles to romantic comedy with ease.
Tanner’s rising career trajectory suggests even greater opportunities for him in the future, both in film and television. His diverse acting abilities and strong screen presence have made him a sought-after talent in Hollywood.
Breakthrough Roles
In 2016, Tanner secured a significant role as Leo Kirkman in the political drama series “Designated Survivor,” portraying the son of the President of the United States. This role brought him considerable recognition. However, it was his portrayal of Robby Keene in the “Karate Kid” sequel series “Cobra Kai” that catapulted him to widespread fame. Debuting in 2018, “Cobra Kai” became a cultural phenomenon, with Tanner’s character being central to the show’s narrative.
Film Endeavors
Transitioning to the big screen, Tanner starred alongside Addison Rae in the 2021 Netflix film “He’s All That,” a gender-swapped remake of the 1999 classic “She’s All That.” He played Cameron Kweller, a socially awkward teenager who undergoes a transformative makeover. The film showcased Tanner’s ability to lead a feature film and further solidified his status in Hollywood.
Personal Life
Tanner Buchanan has maintained a relatively private personal life. However, in February 2025, he and his “Cobra Kai” co-star Mary Mouser announced their engagement, delighting fans who had long speculated about their off-screen relationship. The couple shared the news in a joint Instagram post, expressing their excitement about this new chapter in their lives.(ew.com)
Physical Appearance
Standing at 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters), Tanner has a lean and athletic build, which complements his roles in action-oriented projects like “Cobra Kai.” His striking features, including piercing blue eyes and dark brown hair, have made him a favorite among fans and a sought-after actor in the industry.
Net Worth as of 2024
As of 2024, Tanner Buchanan’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This wealth primarily stems from his acting roles in both television and film, as well as endorsements and other ventures. His continued involvement in high-profile projects suggests a promising financial trajectory in the coming years.
Social Media Presence
Tanner maintains an active presence on social media platforms, engaging with his fans and sharing glimpses into his personal and professional life.
| Platform | Username/Handle | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @tannerbuchananofficial | ||
| @tannerbuchanan | ||
| Tanner Buchanan |
Latest News
As of February 2025, Tanner Buchanan and Mary Mouser, his co-star from “Cobra Kai,” have announced their engagement. The couple shared this joyous news through a joint Instagram post, expressing their gratitude and excitement for the future. This announcement has been met with enthusiasm from fans and the entertainment industry alike.(people.com)
Detailed Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tanner Emmanuel Buchanan |
| Date of Birth | December 8, 1998 |
| Place of Birth | Lima, Ohio, USA |
| Parents | Steve Buchanan (Father), Marlona Buchanan (Mother) |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) |
| Net Worth (2024) | Approximately $1 million |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Tanner Buchanan?
Tanner Buchanan is an American actor, widely recognized for his roles in popular television series like “Cobra Kai” and “Designated Survivor.” He gained international fame portraying Robby Keene in “Cobra Kai,” a character in the continuation of the classic “Karate Kid” saga. Additionally, Tanner has appeared in several TV shows and movies, further establishing himself as a talented and versatile actor in Hollywood.
When was Tanner Buchanan born?
Tanner Buchanan was born on December 8, 1998, in Lima, Ohio, USA. He was raised in Ohio before relocating to Los Angeles at the age of 9 to pursue his acting career more seriously. His early interest in performing arts led him to become one of Hollywood’s most promising young actors.
What is Tanner Buchanan’s height?
Tanner Buchanan stands at a height of 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters). His athletic build, combined with his tall stature, has contributed to his success in action-packed roles, especially in “Cobra Kai,” where his character is involved in intense martial arts scenes.
Who are Tanner Buchanan’s parents?
Tanner Buchanan is the son of Steve Buchanan (father) and Marlona Buchanan (mother). While Tanner has kept his personal life relatively private, it is known that his parents supported his passion for acting and were integral in helping him transition to Hollywood at a young age.
Is Tanner Buchanan engaged?
Yes, as of February 2025, Tanner Buchanan is engaged to his “Cobra Kai” co-star Mary Mouser. The couple made their engagement public through a joint Instagram post, sparking excitement among fans who had speculated about their off-screen relationship for some time. Tanner and Mary’s relationship has been a topic of interest for fans of the show.
6. What is Tanner Buchanan’s net worth?
As of 2024, Tanner Buchanan’s net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This wealth has primarily been accumulated through his acting roles in television series, movies, and other acting-related ventures. His roles in high-profile productions like “Cobra Kai” and “He’s All That” have greatly contributed to his growing fortune.
What movies has Tanner Buchanan starred in?
Tanner Buchanan has ventured into film, starring in the 2021 Netflix movie “He’s All That.” This romantic comedy, a gender-swapped remake of the 1999 classic “She’s All That,” saw Tanner take on the role of Cameron Kweller, a socially awkward teenager who undergoes a makeover. His performance in this film solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood, showcasing his ability to take on romantic comedy roles alongside his action-oriented television roles.
What is Tanner Buchanan’s most famous role?
Tanner Buchanan is best known for his portrayal of Robby Keene in the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai.” His performance as the conflicted teenager, caught between two opposing martial arts ideologies, has earned him a massive following. His character is pivotal to the storyline, making him one of the standout stars of the show.
What is Tanner Buchanan’s relationship with his “Cobra Kai” co-stars?
Tanner Buchanan shares a close relationship with his “Cobra Kai” co-stars, particularly Mary Mouser, who plays his love interest, Samantha LaRusso. The chemistry between their characters on-screen has fueled fan speculation about their off-screen relationship. As mentioned earlier, Tanner and Mary announced their engagement in February 2025, which further delighted their dedicated fanbase.
Has Tanner Buchanan received any awards?
While Tanner Buchanan has not yet received major acting awards, his performances have garnered significant attention from critics and fans alike. His role in “Cobra Kai” has earned him praise for his emotional depth and authenticity, and he has been nominated for various young actor awards. His rising career suggests that he may receive awards and nominations in the future as his acting career continues to flourish.
What movies has Tanner Buchanan starred in?
Tanner Buchanan has ventured into film, starring in the 2021 Netflix movie “He’s All That.” This romantic comedy, a gender-swapped remake of the 1999 classic “She’s All That,” saw Tanner take on the role of Cameron Kweller, a socially awkward teenager who undergoes a makeover. His performance in this film solidified his status as a leading man in Hollywood, showcasing his ability to take on romantic comedy roles alongside his action-oriented television roles.
What is Tanner Buchanan’s most famous role?
Tanner Buchanan is best known for his portrayal of Robby Keene in the hit Netflix series “Cobra Kai.” His performance as the conflicted teenager, caught between two opposing martial arts ideologies, has earned him a massive following. His character is pivotal to the storyline, making him one of the standout stars of the show.
What is Tanner Buchanan’s relationship with his “Cobra Kai” co-stars?
Tanner Buchanan shares a close relationship with his “Cobra Kai” co-stars, particularly Mary Mouser, who plays his love interest, Samantha LaRusso. The chemistry between their characters on-screen has fueled fan speculation about their off-screen relationship. As mentioned earlier, Tanner and Mary announced their engagement in February 2025, which further delighted their dedicated fanbase.
Tanner Buchanan received any awards?
While Tanner Buchanan has not yet received major acting awards, his performances have garnered significant attention from critics and fans alike. His role in “Cobra Kai” has earned him praise for his emotional depth and authenticity, and he has been nominated for various young actor awards. His rising career suggests that he may receive awards and nominations in the future as his acting career continues to flourish.