Influencer Tanner Martin Announces His Death in Instagram Video

Martin, who publicly documented his battle with colon cancer over the past five years, announced his death in a pre-recorded video.

The social network Instagram logo on a smartphone screen on March 14, 2022. AFP via Getty Images

Popular Utah-based influencer, Tanner Martin, has died at 30 years old, announcing his own death through a pre-recorded social media video.

The video was posted on June 25 to his joint Instagram account that he shared with his wife, Shay Martin.

“Hey, it’s me, Tanner. If you’re watching this, I am dead,” he began in the video message.

“I had a heck of a life. I decided to make this video announcing my death, cause I saw someone did that like a year or so ago, and I think it’s a good opportunity to get all your thoughts out, and also you can be thoughtful about what your spouse or your partner may need.”

The content creator, who welcomed his first child in May with his wife, died following a years-long battle with colon cancer and had just entered hospice care about a week ago.

Colorectal cancer is a growth of cells that form in the large intestine or rectum. According to the Mayo Clinic, this type of cancer typically affects older adults and recommends that average-risk individuals begin screening around age 45.

Martin was first diagnosed in November of 2020, after doctors found a mass during a colonoscopy, and he would publicly document his cancer journey.

He underwent surgery to remove the cancer and, over the last five years, underwent various treatments, which included chemotherapy and radiation.

Martin clarified that in making his video, he hoped to give his wife the space to grieve and give fans the opportunity to understand the much-needed break.

He went on to thank his nearly 500,000 followers for the love and support over the years, and asked for prayers for his family.

“You guys, life was awesome. I really enjoyed it while I was here,” he said. “I love you guys, and seriously, thanks again for all your support and helping to make the last years of my life here on earth fun and enjoyable, and helping me be comfortable.”

“Be kind to each other, assume good intent in other people, and you guys will just have a happy life.”

In a follow-up video, Martin had one final request to followers as his dying wish: to donate to a GoFundMe created to help his wife and daughter financially for the future.

The fundraiser has already surpassed its initial goal of $250,000, raising over $750,000 so far.