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Tanner Smith stood out from the moment he made his debut on Love on the Spectrum. Fans couldn’t help but root for the Netflix star after being introduced to the 27-year-old who lived with a roommate in Clemson, South Carolina.
Tanner, who has autism and auditory processing disorder, won over audiences with his contagious enthusiasm, openness and vulnerability, making his journey both heartwarming and enjoyable to watch. Viewers were able to see him grow in confidence while pursuing meaningful connections during seasons 2 and 3.
So when season 4 premiered on April 1, 2026, and he was a no-show, fans immediately noticed his absence and had questions: where did he go and why now?
Us Weekly breaks down what we know about Tanner Smith:
Tanner Smith Reveals Why He Didn’t Return for ‘Love on the Spectrum’ Season 4
Tanner Smith raved over his experience on the hit reality show while confirming that his life is going in a new direction in a video posted to his Instagram page on April 2, 2026.
“Love on the Spectrum was one of the most amazing things that ever happened in my life. It changed everything for me and I’ve done things that I never thought I’d get to do but I have figured something out about myself and I want to tell you what it is,” he began. “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.”
Tanner explained he wants other romantic hopefuls to have the same opportunity he had.
“I know there are so many people out there who do want to date and do wanna get married and so they wanna be on the show,” he continued. “So it’s time for those other people to have the chance to find love.”
“I figured out that I want to travel, I have big dreams and I’m not ready to be somebody’s boyfriend so that is the honest reason why I’m not on season 4,” Tanner added.
Tanner assured fans that he will continue to document his journey on social media.
Tanner Smith Dated Kate Liggitt During Season 2 of ‘Love on the Spectrum’
Viewers got to see his very first date unfold when all seven episodes of Love on the Spectrum season 2 premiered in January 2024.
He went on a lunch outing with Kate Liggitt, who has down syndrome, and was also on her first-ever date, during which they ordered burgers and he said a prayer before they ate. Tanner shared that he was looking for a “pretty” girl that was “talkative” and Christian.
After the show wrapped, Tanner told Tudum they remained “very good friends” and stayed in touch via text messages, adding, “We got together with some other friends after Christmas and went to see the lights at the zoo.”
Tanner Smith Dated Shyann and Callie Truelove During Season 3
Tanner Smith and Shyann tried to see if there were sparks between them during a blind date at Split Creek Farm during season 3, which aired in April 2025. He showed up with a pink gift bag in hand, eager to chat with Shyann, but it wasn’t a match and they ultimately decided to just be friends.
Later in the season, he pursued a romance with Callie Truelove, who he called “smoking hot.” After hitting it off during their first date, the two visited Janie Earle Furman Rose Garden for their second date.
From Colton Underwood to Madi Prewett to Ashley Iaconetti, reality TV contestants have opened up about choosing to remain a virgin while looking for love. Netflix’s Age of Attraction, which premiered in March 2026, followed a group of people who explored connections without knowing each other’s ages. This led to multiple pairings with significant age […]
“You’re very nice and very kind, and I like your personality,” he told Callie. “And you’re easy to talk to.” In the end, they decided to keep their connection platonic.
As for where they stand now, Tanner said there’s nothing but good vibes.
“I had a great time with Kate and Callie, and they are awesome girls,” he gushed in his new Instagram video on April 2.
What ‘Love on the Spectrum’ Star Tanner Smith Is Up to Today
After season 2, Tanner Smith confirmed that he was still working his job at The Shepherd Hotel and many fans continued to show up at his job with the hopes of meeting him.
These days, he’s often posting collaborations on social media, including one with Cove Soda for their new Pink Slushie.
He’s also currently the brand ambassador for an app called Wable, a platform for neurodivergent people to meet, make friends or pursue romantic connections.
