Tanner Buchanan is a talented American actor born on December 8, 1998, making him 24 years old as of 2023. With a net worth estimated to be in the millions, Buchanan has established himself as a rising star in the entertainment industry. He is best known for his roles in the hit TV series Cobra Kai and Designated Survivor. In Cobra Kai, Buchanan plays the lovable but troubled character Robby Keene, while in Designated Survivor, he portrays the complex and intriguing Leo Kirkman. With his versatility and charm, Buchanan continues to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression in the world of Hollywood.
Early Life and Background
Tanner Buchanan was born on December 8, 1998. His birthplace is not publicly known, but it is reported that he is an American actor. Buchanan’s upbringing is also not well-documented.
Growing up, Tanner Buchanan was likely exposed to various interests and activities that shaped his personality and worldview. While specific details about his childhood are scarce, it is clear that he developed a strong interest in the performing arts, which would eventually lead him to pursue a career in acting.
Buchanan’s early life laid the foundation for his future success in the entertainment industry. His dedication and passion for acting would eventually earn him recognition and opportunities to showcase his talents in notable roles.
Acting Career and Breakthrough Roles

Tanner Buchanan’s acting career spans several notable roles in television series. He is best known for his portrayal of Leo Kirkman in the political conspiracy drama series Designated Survivor (2016–2018). This role showcased his ability to play complex characters in intense situations. Buchanan’s performance in the series earned him recognition within the acting community.
In addition to his work in Designated Survivor, Buchanan also gained recognition for his role as Robby Keene in the martial arts action series Cobra Kai (2018–2025). This series is a continuation of the classic Karate Kid franchise and features a mix of martial arts and coming-of-age themes. Buchanan’s character, Robby Keene, is a key figure in the series, navigating the complexities of high school life while also mastering the art of karate.
Buchanan’s experience in both Designated Survivor and Cobra Kai has demonstrated his versatility as an actor. He has successfully transitioned between playing a high-stakes politician and a high school student navigating the world of martial arts. His performances in these series have solidified his position as a talented young actor in the entertainment industry.
Major Roles in Designated Survivor and Cobra Kai

Tanner Buchanan’s portrayal of Leo Kirkman in the ABC drama series Designated Survivor showcased his versatility as a young actor. As the eldest son of President Tom Kirkman, Leo navigated the complexities of life in the White House, often finding himself at the center of high-stakes political intrigue. Buchanan’s performance brought depth to the character, capturing the struggles of growing up in the public eye while also grappling with the weight of family responsibility.
| Biography Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Tanner Emmanuel Cristobal Buchanan |
| Date of Birth | December 8, 1998 |
| Age | 25 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actor |
| Notable Works | Designated Survivor, Cobra Kai |
| Years Active | 2016–2025 |
In the Netflix series Cobra Kai, Buchanan took on the role of Robby Keene, a troubled teenager who finds solace in the world of martial arts. As a student of the notorious Cobra Kai dojo, Robby must confront the harsh realities of his new surroundings and the influence of his mentors. Buchanan’s portrayal of Robby brought a nuanced perspective to the character, highlighting the emotional struggles of a young man trying to find his place in the world. Buchanan’s performance earned him a dedicated fan base within the Cobra Kai community.
Buchanan’s involvement in both Designated Survivor and Cobra Kai demonstrated his ability to excel in diverse roles, from the high-stakes world of politics to the intense realm of martial arts. His performances in these series solidified his position as a talented young actor, capable of bringing depth and complexity to a wide range of characters.
Awards and Recognition

Tanner Buchanan has received several awards and nominations for his acting work. Notably, he was part of the ensemble cast of Cobra Kai that won the Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Comedy Series in 2022. This recognition is a testament to the show’s impact and Buchanan’s contributions to its success.
Buchanan’s portrayal of Robby Keene in Cobra Kai has also earned him a nomination for the Teen Choice Award for Choice TV Actor: Action in 2019. This nomination highlights the show’s popularity and Buchanan’s ability to captivate audiences with his performance. His work in Cobra Kai has been well-received by fans and critics alike, solidifying his position as a talented young actor in the industry.
As a talented actor, Buchanan continues to be recognized for his contributions to the world of entertainment. His awards and nominations serve as a reminder of his dedication to his craft and his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen.
Personal Life and Relationships
Tanner Buchanan is known to be a skilled martial artist, which is evident in his portrayal of Robby Keene in the martial arts action series Cobra Kai. This interest likely stems from his involvement in the show, where he plays a character who is deeply invested in the world of karate. Buchanan’s experience in martial arts has undoubtedly influenced his performances on screen.
Buchanan’s personal life is relatively private, but it is known that he has been involved in various relationships over the years. His roles in Designated Survivor and Cobra Kai have likely taken a toll on his personal life, but he has managed to maintain a sense of balance between his work and relationships. Buchanan’s dedication to his craft is evident in his performances, and it is clear that he is passionate about his work.
Buchanan’s interests and hobbies outside of acting are not well-documented, but it is clear that he is a talented individual with a strong passion for his craft. His involvement in martial arts has likely influenced his performances on screen, and it is clear that he is a dedicated and hardworking individual.
Net Worth and Earnings
Tanner Buchanan’s net worth is estimated to be around $2 million, accumulated from his successful acting career in television series and films. His role as Robby Keene in the martial arts action series Cobra Kai (2018-2025) has contributed significantly to his earnings, with the show being a major hit globally. The series’ popularity has led to a substantial increase in Buchanan’s net worth, making him one of the highest-paid young actors in the industry.
Buchanan’s other notable role as Leo Kirkman in the political conspiracy drama series Designated Survivor (2016-2018) also added to his net worth. The show was a moderate success, but it still provided Buchanan with a steady income and exposure in the industry. His experience in both series has helped him establish himself as a talented and versatile actor, commanding higher paychecks for his roles.
As an American actor, Buchanan’s earnings are largely derived from his work in television series, with his most notable roles in Cobra Kai and Designated Survivor contributing significantly to his net worth. With his growing popularity and increasing demand for his services, it is likely that Buchanan’s net worth will continue to rise in the coming years.
Impact on the Entertainment Industry
Tanner Buchanan’s portrayal of Robby Keene in the martial arts action series Cobra Kai has significantly contributed to the show’s massive success. As a key character in the series, Robby’s storyline has been intricately woven into the narrative, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of martial arts culture. The show’s blend of nostalgia and modern storytelling has resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing Cobra Kai’s status as a cultural phenomenon.
Buchanan’s involvement in Cobra Kai has also helped to popularize the original Karate Kid film franchise, introducing the series to a new generation of fans. As the show’s narrative delves into the lives of Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso’s students, Buchanan’s character Robby Keene has become an integral part of the Cobra Kai universe. The show’s impact on the entertainment industry is undeniable, with Cobra Kai’s success paving the way for a new wave of martial arts-themed content.
In addition to his work on Cobra Kai, Buchanan’s role as Leo Kirkman in the political conspiracy drama series Designated Survivor has also showcased his versatility as an actor. While not as overtly influential as his work on Cobra Kai, his portrayal of Leo Kirkman has demonstrated his ability to take on complex, nuanced characters and bring depth to their stories. Buchanan’s performances have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the entertainment industry, solidifying his position as a talented and versatile young actor.