Social media personality Tanner Martin, known for candidly sharing the details of his life online, has passed away aged 30, just weeks after the arrival of his first child. In an extraordinary and emotional turn, Martin took the unusual step of announcing his own death to his followers through a pre-recorded video, leaving a lasting message that has resonated widely across social media platforms.
Tanner’s devoted following of over 450,000 Instagram users had watched his journey with colon cancer unfold over five years. He frequently used his platforms to discuss his diagnosis, treatment and the emotional toll the disease took, offering comfort and solidarity to those in similar positions. The sudden loss so soon after he and his wife, Shay Wright, became parents to AmyLou, has drawn an outpouring of grief and support from all corners of the internet.
His farewell message, posted soon after his death, has been viewed nearly 8 million times—demonstrating the profound effect he had on his audience. The video, which opens with Tanner’s familiar smile, features his characteristically direct and humorous style: “Hey, it’s me, Tanner. If you’re watching this, I am dead,” he remarks, breaking the tension with laughter in an attempt to comfort those left behind.
In his message, Tanner was open about why he chose to record this statement, saying he wanted to have the chance to speak for himself one last time. He mused about having lived, “a heck of a life”, and explained that seeing another person share their final words inspired him to do the same. Such a gesture, he said, gave him the opportunity to express everything on his mind as his life drew to a close.
The video did not shy away from the difficult subject of his illness or impending death, instead highlighting the strength of his wife and his hopes for their daughter’s future. Speaking of Shay, he expressed his gratitude for her resilience, especially as she prepared to face parenthood alone. He publicly thanked both his family and his online supporters for helping to make his last years “fun and enjoyable” despite the challenges.
Tanner’s approach to mortality was philosophical and even optimistic, explaining that, though death was a daunting prospect, he saw it as the “start of a new adventure.” He conveyed his hope that there is an afterlife, and the possibility of reuniting with loved ones no longer in pain. “I’m excited to see what the experience is like, and hopefully it’s good,” he confided to his fans.
Accompanying Tanner’s last address, Shay included a heartfelt caption referencing his love for pop culture, writing, “May the force be with you from our angel force ghost.” She also encouraged followers to look at the next video, in which Tanner made a final request for support for their daughter, AmyLou.
Following up on his wishes, the family established a GoFundMe campaign—labelled the “Last Wish Fund”—to help support AmyLou’s future. This initiative swiftly gathered momentum, raising more than $470,000 (£342,000) in donations, demonstrating not only the depth of collective mourning but also the community’s desire to honour Tanner’s legacy by rallying around his loved ones.
The impact of Tanner Martin’s life—and death—has highlighted the unique role that social media stars can play in their followers’ lives. Not only do they share their highest and lowest moments in real-time, but they can also reshape the way society talks about terminal illness, legacy, and the power of honest communication. At a time when online influence is often dismissed as superficial, Tanner’s story is a reminder of how genuine connection can be forged, even through a screen.
As tributes continue to pour in, his story remains a beacon for those who seek positivity in the face of adversity, as well as a testament to the enduring value of saying goodbye on one’s own terms.