Who is Tanner Buchanan: The Rising Star Taking Hollywood by Storm
Tanner Buchanan is an American actor best known for his breakout role as Robby Keene in Netflix’s hit series “Cobra Kai.” Born on December 8, 1998, in Lima, Ohio, this 25-year-old actor has quickly become one of Hollywood’s most promising young talents.
Quick Facts About Tanner Buchanan:
- Age: 25 years old (born December 8, 1998)
- Height: 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters)
- Most Famous Role: Robby Keene in “Cobra Kai” (2018-2025)
- Other Notable Roles: Leo Kirkman in “Designated Survivor,” Cameron Kweller in “He’s All That”
- Career Start: 2010 with a minor role on “Modern Family”
- Total Acting Credits: 30+ film and TV appearances
Tanner’s journey from a small town in Ohio to Hollywood stardom showcases his dedication and natural talent. His work ethic became evident early in his career, as he once shared about his approach to professionalism: “I grew up in Ohio. And if you’re on time, you’re late, right? I made it a priority to show up when the first person showed up, and leave when the last person left, just out of respect.”
From his humble beginnings performing with Los Angeles theater groups to starring in one of Netflix’s most popular series, Tanner has proven his versatility across multiple genres. Whether he’s playing a rebellious teenager in “Cobra Kai” or a romantic lead in “He’s All That,” his ability to bring depth to diverse characters has made him a standout performer in Hollywood’s competitive landscape.
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From Ohio to Hollywood: The Early Journey
Tanner Buchanan’s story begins in Lima, Ohio, where he was born into a Christian household. His early education at Glandorf Elementary School provided a stable foundation before his family made the life-changing decision to relocate to Los Angeles in 2007. This move would prove pivotal in launching his entertainment career.
The transition from small-town Ohio to the busy entertainment capital wasn’t just a geographical change – it represented a complete shift in lifestyle and opportunity. Once in Los Angeles, young Tanner immediately immersed himself in the local acting scene, performing with various Los Angeles acting and theater groups. This early exposure to professional theater helped him develop the skills and confidence that would later serve him well on screen.
His first screen appearance came in 2010 with a minor role on the hit ABC sitcom “Modern Family.” While the role was small, it marked the beginning of what would become an impressive career spanning over a decade. This early start gave him valuable experience working with professional crews and established actors, lessons that would prove invaluable as his career progressed.
The work ethic instilled in him during his Ohio upbringing became a defining characteristic of his professional approach. His commitment to arriving early and staying late demonstrated a level of professionalism that impressed casting directors and fellow actors alike. This dedication quickly led to more opportunities in juvenile roles across various television networks.
His early television work included appearances on shows like “The Goldbergs” (ABC) and “Major Crimes” (TNT), where he played a boy with gender issues – a role that showcased his ability to handle complex, sensitive material even at a young age. These early performances demonstrated his range and willingness to take on challenging characters.
The Foundation of a Versatile Career
The period from 2015 to 2016 proved particularly significant for Tanner Buchanan’s career development. During this time, he secured recurring roles on three different series, showcasing his versatility and growing appeal to casting directors. His work on “Girl Meets World” saw him playing a quiet boy who complicates the romantic dynamics of the show’s main characters, while his role on “Game Shakers” allowed him to portray a self-impressed high schooler with comedic timing.
Perhaps most notably during this period was his work on “The Fosters,” where he played a sexually confused young man in a storyline that dealt with serious themes including foster care and identity. This role demonstrated his ability to handle mature subject matter with sensitivity and depth, qualities that would become hallmarks of his acting style.
His appearances on “Game Shakers” totaled 6 episodes from 2015-2019, while “The Fosters” featured him in 6 episodes during 2016. These recurring roles provided him with the opportunity to develop characters over multiple episodes, allowing audiences to see his range and building a fanbase that would follow him to future projects.
The variety of these early roles – from comedy to drama, from lighthearted teen shows to more serious fare – established Tanner Buchanan as an actor capable of handling diverse material. He successfully balanced what industry observers noted as “heartthrob roles with character turns,” proving he could be both appealing to young audiences and credible in more complex dramatic situations.
This foundation of versatility would prove crucial when he auditioned for his breakthrough role in “Designated Survivor,” where his ability to portray both vulnerability and strength would be essential to the character of Leo Kirkman.
The Breakout Role: How Tanner Buchanan Became Robby Keene
The role that truly transformed Tanner Buchanan from a working young actor into a household name came with Netflix’s “Cobra Kai.” Cast as Robby Keene, the troubled son of Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka), Tanner stepped into a character that would define his career and introduce him to millions of fans worldwide.
When “Cobra Kai” first premiered on YouTube Premium before finding its massive audience on Netflix, few could have predicted the cultural phenomenon it would become. The series brilliantly revived the beloved Karate Kid franchise for a new generation while satisfying longtime fans who grew up with the original films.
Robby Keene proved to be far more than just another teenage character. He’s a complex young man caught between his estranged father and his desperate desire to forge his own path. The role demanded everything from Tanner – emotional depth, physical change, and a commitment to authenticity that would push him to his limits.
Perhaps the most challenging aspect was the physical change required. Having absolutely no prior martial arts background, Tanner Buchanan threw himself into learning karate, taekwondo, and muay thai. This wasn’t just about looking the part – the show’s numerous fight scenes required him to master complex choreography and perform much of his own stunt work.
The change was remarkable. Tanner worked tirelessly with professional martial arts instructors and stunt coordinators, spending countless hours perfecting techniques that would make his fight scenes believable and exciting. His dedication to performing his own stunts whenever possible added an authenticity that fans immediately recognized and appreciated.
The Impact of Robby Keene on Tanner Buchanan
When “Cobra Kai” made its move to Netflix in 2020, everything changed for Tanner Buchanan. The series exploded in popularity, consistently ranking among the platform’s most-watched shows and bringing global recognition to the entire cast. Suddenly, Tanner’s face was recognizable to viewers across the globe.
The career impact was immediate and profound. His portrayal of Robby Keene across 65 episodes from 2018 to 2025 became his signature role, establishing him as a leading man capable of carrying major storylines. But the success came with significant personal life changes that extended far beyond professional opportunities.
The training regimen required for the role became a complete lifestyle change. Tanner adopted a rigorous fitness routine that included not only martial arts instruction but also strength training and conditioning. His commitment to maintaining the athletic physique required for Robby wasn’t just about looking the part – it became a personal dedication to health and fitness that continues today.
The diet and physical preparation were just part of the equation. An exclusive interview revealed his intensive training process, showing how he approached each season with the dedication of a professional athlete.
What made the experience even more rewarding was the collaboration with creators on character development. Tanner Buchanan worked closely with the show’s writers and producers to shape Robby’s arc throughout the series. His input helped develop storylines that explored themes of family, redemption, and personal growth – topics that resonated deeply with his own values.
The role’s impact went beyond career advancement. The show’s positive messages about perseverance, respect, and personal growth aligned perfectly with the work ethic instilled in him during his Ohio upbringing. Working on a series that promoted these values while entertaining millions worldwide was both professionally satisfying and personally meaningful.
The success of “Cobra Kai” also opened doors to significant film opportunities, including his leading role in “He’s All That.” This transition from television success to film roles demonstrated how his work as Robby Keene had established him as a versatile actor capable of carrying projects across different mediums.
Beyond the Dojo: A Diverse and Growing Filmography
While “Cobra Kai” brought Tanner Buchanan widespread recognition, his filmography extends far beyond the dojo. His role as Leo Kirkman in ABC’s political drama “Designated Survivor” showcased his ability to handle serious dramatic material alongside established stars like Kiefer Sutherland. Playing the president’s son for 19 episodes from 2016 to 2018, Tanner demonstrated his capacity to hold his own in high-stakes political storylines.
The transition to film proved equally successful with his starring role in “He’s All That” (2021), where he played Cameron Kweller, a social media influencer who gets a makeover from his female counterpart. This gender-swapped remake of the 1999 teen classic allowed Tanner to showcase his comedic timing and romantic leading man qualities to a new audience.
His filmography also includes “How to Date Billy Walsh,” “Max Winslow and the House of Secrets,” and “The Hyperions,” each offering different challenges and opportunities to expand his range. These projects demonstrate his willingness to take on diverse roles across various genres, from family-friendly trips to more mature dramatic content.
Tanner Buchanan’s Most Notable Roles:
- Robby Keene in “Cobra Kai” (2018-2025) – 65 episodes
- Leo Kirkman in “Designated Survivor” (2016-2018) – 19 episodes
- Cameron Kweller in “He’s All That” (2021)
- Mason Kendall in “Game Shakers” (2015-2019) – 6 episodes
- Various characters in “The Fosters” (2016) – 6 episodes
Exploring Different Genres with Tanner Buchanan
Tanner Buchanan’s career choices reflect a deliberate strategy to avoid typecasting while building a diverse portfolio of work. His venture into romantic comedies with “He’s All That” proved he could carry a film as a leading man, while his work in political dramas like “Designated Survivor” demonstrated his ability to handle complex, adult-oriented storylines.
His earlier film work includes “Sinister Seduction,” “Anything,” and “Jake Squared” (his 2013 film debut), each offering different challenges and learning opportunities. These projects, while smaller in scale than his later work, provided valuable experience in film production and helped him develop relationships within the industry.
The sci-fi thriller elements in projects like “Max Winslow and the House of Secrets” allowed him to explore genre work, while his appearances in various television dramas showed his comfort with procedural and serialized storytelling formats. This range has positioned him well for future opportunities across multiple entertainment platforms.
His ability to transition seamlessly between television and film, comedy and drama, teen-oriented and adult content, reflects both his natural talent and his strategic approach to career development. Rather than being pigeonholed into a single type of role, he has successfully established himself as a versatile performer capable of handling diverse material.
The Man Behind the Roles: Passions and Lesser-Known Facts
While Tanner Buchanan has captured hearts with his on-screen performances, there’s much more to find about the man behind the characters. Away from the cameras, he reveals a fascinating mix of interests that paint a picture of someone who’s both grounded and curious about the world around him.
His passion for cars runs deep, reflecting a hands-on appreciation for mechanics and automotive design. This interest goes beyond just admiring sleek vehicles – he genuinely enjoys learning about how things work and the craftsmanship that goes into creating them. It’s the kind of hobby that connects him to his Midwestern roots, where practical skills and mechanical knowledge are valued.
Music plays an equally important role in his life. Tanner Buchanan is skilled at playing guitar, which showcases his creative side beyond acting. This musical ability adds another layer to his artistic expression and provides a creative outlet that’s entirely his own. His appreciation for music spans various genres, and he’s hinted at potentially exploring music-related projects in the future.
His Filipino heritage from his mother’s side has given him a rich cultural background that influences his worldview. Growing up in a Christian household in Ohio provided him with strong foundational values that continue to guide both his career choices and personal relationships. This diverse background has contributed to his ability to connect with audiences from different walks of life.
Fashion has become another area where Tanner Buchanan expresses his personality. His red carpet appearances consistently demonstrate a keen fashion sense that strikes the perfect balance between approachable and sophisticated. His style choices reflect his personality – youthful yet mature, confident without being flashy.
Perhaps most surprisingly, despite his success, he remains deeply committed to continuous learning. This dedication to growth reflects the work ethic instilled during his Ohio upbringing and drives his ongoing professional development. It’s this combination of talent, curiosity, and genuine humility that makes him such a compelling figure both on and off screen.
The Craft and Future in Hollywood
Tanner Buchanan’s approach to acting reflects the same work ethic that brought him from Ohio to Hollywood success. He believes in thorough character preparation, diving deep into his characters’ backgrounds and motivations before stepping onto set. This dedication to understanding his roles shows in every performance, whether he’s playing a troubled teen in “Cobra Kai” or a romantic lead in “He’s All That.”
His collaboration with directors and fellow actors has become a cornerstone of his process. Rather than simply following direction, he actively engages in creative discussions about character development and story arcs. This collaborative spirit was particularly evident during his work on “Cobra Kai,” where his input helped shape Robby Keene’s journey throughout the series.
The physical demands of his breakout role taught him valuable lessons about preparation that extend beyond martial arts. Tanner Buchanan now approaches every project with an understanding that convincing performances often require comprehensive preparation – whether that means learning new skills, adopting specific physical characteristics, or working with specialized coaches and consultants to ensure authenticity.
His experience has sparked interest in exploring the creative process beyond just acting. The behind-the-scenes work on “Cobra Kai” introduced him to writing and producing aspects of television, suggesting potential future involvement in these areas. This curiosity about the broader entertainment industry positions him well for long-term career growth.
The industry has recognized his dedication and versatility through various accolades. He has received 2 award nominations throughout his career, including recognition from the Canadian International Faith & Family Film Festival. This professional acknowledgment demonstrates that his work resonates with both audiences and industry professionals.
Looking toward the future, Tanner Buchanan has expressed interest in taking on increasingly diverse and challenging roles. His goal is to continue growing as an actor while potentially expanding into other areas of entertainment. The foundation built through his early television work, strengthened by his success on “Cobra Kai,” and diversified through his film projects creates a solid platform for whatever direction his career takes next.
His continued evolution as a performer is evident in each new project. From his early days on “Modern Family” to his leading man status today, he’s consistently chosen roles that challenge his abilities and expand his range. This strategic approach to career development, combined with his natural talent and Midwest work ethic, suggests a bright future ahead in Hollywood.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tanner Buchanan
How old is Tanner Buchanan?
Tanner Buchanan was born on December 8, 1998, which makes him 25 years old as of 2024. Born under the zodiac sign of Sagittarius, he carries many of the adventurous and optimistic traits that Sagittarians are known for.
These qualities have clearly served him well throughout his journey from a small town in Ohio to the bright lights of Hollywood. His youthful energy and positive outlook shine through in interviews and on-screen performances, making him relatable to audiences across different age groups.
What is Tanner Buchanan best known for?
When people think of Tanner Buchanan, the first role that comes to mind is almost certainly Robby Keene in Netflix’s wildly popular series “Cobra Kai.” This breakout performance, spanning 65 episodes from 2018 to 2025, transformed him from a working young actor into a household name.
However, his talent extends beyond the dojo. Many fans also recognize him as Leo Kirkman in the political drama “Designated Survivor,” where he held his own alongside seasoned actors like Kiefer Sutherland. His role as the president’s son showcased his ability to handle serious dramatic material with maturity beyond his years.
More recently, Tanner Buchanan charmed audiences as Cameron Kweller in the romantic comedy “He’s All That.” This gender-swapped remake of the 1999 classic proved he could carry a film as a leading man while displaying impressive comedic timing.
Does Tanner Buchanan know martial arts in real life?
This is one of the most common questions fans ask about Tanner Buchanan, and the answer might surprise you. Before landing his role in “Cobra Kai,” he had no prior martial arts background whatsoever. Zero. Nada. Not even a single karate class as a kid.
But here’s where his incredible dedication shines through. When he got the role of Robby Keene, Tanner threw himself into martial arts training with the same work ethic he learned growing up in Ohio. He underwent extensive training in karate, taekwondo, and muay thai specifically for the show.
His commitment was so thorough that he genuinely became skilled in these martial arts disciplines. While his expertise developed for the role rather than as a lifelong pursuit, his training was comprehensive enough that he could perform many of his own stunts. The physical change and skill development he achieved for “Cobra Kai” demonstrates the level of preparation he brings to every role.
It’s a testament to his dedication that viewers often assume he’s been practicing martial arts his whole life. That’s just good acting – and a lot of hard work behind the scenes.
Conclusion
Tanner Buchanan’s remarkable journey from Lima, Ohio to Hollywood stardom shows us what happens when small-town values meet big-city dreams. His change from a young boy attending Glandorf Elementary School to becoming the face of Netflix’s “Cobra Kai” is a testament to the power of hard work and staying true to your roots.
What makes Tanner’s story so compelling isn’t just his success – it’s how he achieved it. His early lesson that “if you’re on time, you’re late” became the foundation for a career built on professionalism and respect. Whether he was learning martial arts for Robby Keene or mastering the comedic timing needed for “He’s All That,” his dedication to the craft never wavered.
The versatility Tanner Buchanan has shown throughout his career sets him apart in an industry that often tries to box actors into single roles. From political dramas like “Designated Survivor” to romantic comedies, from intense action sequences to heartfelt family moments, he’s proven that great actors can excel across any genre.
His willingness to undergo physical change for “Cobra Kai” – learning multiple martial arts disciplines despite having no prior experience – demonstrates the kind of commitment that separates good actors from great ones. This dedication, combined with his natural talent and Ohio-bred work ethic, has created a recipe for lasting success.
As Tanner Buchanan continues to grow as an actor and explore new creative opportunities, his future in Hollywood looks incredibly bright. His story reminds us that with dedication, versatility, and a genuine love for the craft, dreams really can come true – even for a kid from small-town Ohio.
At The Dining Destination, we celebrate stories of passion and craftsmanship. Just as we explore the finest culinary experiences and the dedicated chefs who create them, we recognize the artistry that goes into memorable performances that bring joy to audiences worldwide.
