Meet Tanner Schmidt of Hollywood

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanner Schmidt.

Hi Tanner, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in Branson, Missouri– which is like if Las Vegas had a southern stepsister who works at Cracker Barrel. I’m the third of four kids in my rambunctious family: an outstanding Nanny, an amazing mom, a hardworking dad, and siblings who helped shape me into who I am.
Growing up in the Ozarks, I learned early on that I saw the world a little differently — and I loved that. I knew I wasn’t meant to fall in line with everybody else. While other boys were hooking bait on their lines, I was running my lines.

From the very beginning, everything in my life pointed me toward performing. At only five years old, I was writing chaotic, action-packed Power Rangers “scripts,” including me as the main hero. I’d handwrite every scene on construction paper and make three copies—one for me, and one for each of my parents to step into their roles. I didn’t know acting was a thing, let alone something you could do for your entire life. I just knew I wanted to be a Power Ranger.

A few years later, when I was eight, my mom took us to see “Camp Rock: The Musical Jr.” at Springfield Little Theatre. And who happened to be starring as Mitchie Torres? None other than the outstanding Cailee Spaeny– now known for her brilliant work in Priscilla, Alien: Romulus, and much more. Watching Cailee own the stage made an undeniable impression in me. It showed me what was possible — that a kid from Missouri could get up there and make magic. I could do anything I wanted to. That was the moment I connected with my life’s purpose: to be an actor.

When I was thirteen, I booked my first acting job off Craigslist. Without telling my parents. You can imagine the look on their faces when I announced I’d playing Zombie #3 in a short film. But honestly, this little project was pivotal for me. It ignited the dire need to do this for the rest of my life. Acting isn’t just something I love. It’s the reason I’m here.

After high school, I moved to Los Angeles to begin my training at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. It was there, I really started understanding what I was capable of. The instructors I had the privilege of learning from were absolutely crucial to the performer I am today. I pushed myself constantly to go deeper, take risks, and soak up everything I possibly could. And I didn’t just aim to be good—I aimed to be undeniable.

That training laid the foundation—but the fire I felt in that Hannah Montana wig? That’s still with me. Just the fire, not the wig. And right now, I’m at the most exciting point yet. I’m ready to take on roles that challenge me, collaborate with creators who inspire me, and tell stories that stick with people long after the credits.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
When I was thirteen-going-on-fourteen, I became homeless. My parents split up and had their own things to work through—but that’s their story to tell. At that time, they were not able to be at home with us. My nanny, who helped raise us, was moved into a nursing home because the care she needed went beyond what three teenagers and a ten-year-old could provide.

For my siblings and me, it meant figuring out how to survive. We got ourselves up for school, made our own meals, and tried to keep the lights on. First, we lost water because none of us knew how to pay the bill, let alone had the money to. We showered at a local campsite. Then the electricity went. Eventually, we had to leave the house altogether—it just wasn’t livable anymore.

We split up out of necessity. It was easier to house one or two kids than all four. I couch-hopped, staying with anyone who would take me in. I’ll never forget sleeping on a bean bag in someone’s living room—and waking up next to a dead rat caught in a floor fan. That morning, I realized: I needed my life back.

Thankfully, I was able to work—even at that age. A girl on the cheerleading team let me take her shifts at an ice cream shop. I used the money I earned to buy minutes on a phone, so I could talk to my family. I saved the rest, hoping it would help bring us back together.

Eventually, my mom, my siblings, and I came together again. We moved into a single hotel room, with two beds. My brothers, sister, and I would take turns sleeping on the floor. And despite everything, that time was precious. Nothing mattered more than being together again. We stayed there for a few months before moving into a small apartment. That chapter of my life taught me resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of showing up for people you love.

Coming out was another kind of survival. It was one of the most terrifying moments of my life. Even with a loving family, I was mortified of losing everything I loved—of being seen as different, disappointing, and disgusting. I’m eternally grateful for my family’s willingness to learn, to listen, and to love me exactly as I am.

Adulthood hasn’t made life magically easier. I’ve faced homelessness again. I’ve skipped meals. I’ve cried not knowing what tomorrow might bring. But here’s the truth: I don’t stay down. And if you’re hearing this — I bet you don’t either. We walk the tightrope between success and failure, balancing between the wobbles, but we keep going. When you know something is meant for you, you’ll do whatever it takes to bring it to life. The obstacles may never stop—but neither will I.

My life has taught me that I am powerful. That I carry endless possibility.
My story isn’t about hardship — it’s about possibility. It’s about choosing love over fear. Power over shame. And being the kind of person I needed when I was sleeping on that bean bag.

I don’t share my story for sympathy. I share it because I believe it might help someone else. Someone who’s fighting. Someone who feels alone. Someone who forgot what they’re made of.
You already have everything you need. And so do I.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
“Be the ears for those who need to listen. Be the eyes for those who need to see. Be the voice for those who need to speak.”

I’m skyrocketing as a chameleon of an actor, bringing depth, humor, and authenticity to every role I take on. My versatility means I’m just as comfortable diving into intense drama as delivering sharp, quick-witted comedy. I want to push boundaries and explore complex characters that challenge societal norms and spark meaningful conversation. What lights me up the most is using my work to create impact– to cause a call-to-action, inspire, and reveal what it means to be fully human. I’m an artist who leads with instinct, empathy, and full presence. More than just entertainment, I create art that is provocative and reflective.

As mentioned earlier, I started my training at AMDA College of the Performing Arts in Los Angeles, where I immersed myself in rigorous, conservatory-style performance work. AMDA taught me more than just technique—it helped me understand how to turn vulnerability into power. I trained in stage and screen performance, voice, movement, and the discipline of consistency. I pushed myself every day — not just to be good, but to be truthful. To be fearless.

Since graduating in 2024, I’ve been building a body of work I’m really proud of. This year, I’ve worked on two short films and a commercial, and I’m hungry for more. I bring range — from grounded, intimate drama to quick, sharp-tongued comedy, especially layered characters that challenge identity, flip perspectives, and confront stereotypes. I work to reveal raw emotional truths and expose the human complexity underneath the surface.

I’m passionate about creating my own projects—from screenwriting to directing to acting—because it unlocks creative freedom and lets me tell the stories that haven’t been told yet. Building my own material keeps me sharp, innovative, and deeply connected to the artist’s mission I truly believe in.

Beyond my own acting work, I’ve taught the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), helping actors build vocal confidence, strengthen pronunciation, and expand their dialect range. I love collaborating — rehearsing together, workshopping auditions, and supporting others as they grow.

At my core, I believe storytelling is a powerful way to be the ears, eyes, and voice for those whose stories deserve to be heard. That mission drives every choice I make—on screen, on stage, and in life—and fuels my passion to bring truth and heart to every role.

What are your plans for the future?
I’m ready to expand my work beyond shorts and commercials into feature films, TV, and streaming projects that tell bold, emotionally resonant stories. I’m passionate about collaborating with visionary creators— like Harvey Fierstein, Damien Chazelle, and Darren Aronofsky—who lead with truth, embrace contradiction, and bring a distinct point of view. I thrive in spaces where humor and humanity collide, where risk-taking is the norm, and stories truly matter.

I’m incredibly grateful to be represented by the outstanding team at Next Level Entertainment. Kim and Martin believe fiercely in me and consistently champion projects that align with my voice and values. Having that kind of support fuels my confidence to dream bigger, reach higher, and keep leveling up.

This July, I’ll be diving into Bernard Hiller’s Masterclass, and honestly, I’m buzzing with excitement. I know it will stretch me, unlock new layers, and elevate my craft in ways I can’t even imagine. I’m committed to lifelong learning and growth because every step brings me closer to the artist I’m destined to become.

Looking forward, I’m driven by the desire to give back—starting with my mom. She’s been my rock, and that vision keeps me grounded and hungry. For me, it’s not just about personal success; it’s about honoring the people who shaped me along the way.

Ultimately, I’m eager to be involved in projects that inspire empathy, celebrate authenticity, and create change. Acting isn’t just something I do—it’s the most powerful way I know how to give back to the world. I’m excited for every challenge, every opportunity, and every chance to touch lives through the power of storytelling. I’m here to do work that matters, and I’m ready for what’s next.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thetannerschmidt.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/thetannerschmidt
• Other: https://resumes.actorsaccess.com/tannerschmidt

Image Credits
Deidhra Fahey Photography
Chris Jon Photography
Robert Borowski