Along with personal appearances around the United States, talk show appearances, and features in magazines and newspapers, Taran continues to stay busy with acting projects. Most recently, Taran enjoyed participating in the 10th annual Nickelodeon Kids Choice Awards with Rosie O'Donnell, and has taped three episodes of Nick's new game show, "Figure It Out." Taran is currently hosting a half-hour series for "GreatKids Network," profiling children who have made a difference in their communities. Taran also plays the lead, starring in the family-oriented film, "Little Bigfoot, The Journey Home."

Taran has been featured on the cover of the Crayola Kids Magazine and recognized for his athletic ability in Sports Illustrated For Kids. He has appeared on such talk shows as "Entertainment Tonight," "Good Morning America," "John & Leeze," "Mike & Maty," "Live: With Regis & Kathie Lee," "Caryl & Marilyn" and "FX"; and has been featured on such programs as "Front Runner," "Gladiators 2000," Australia's "Talk to the Animals," and the ABC special, "You Gotta See This." In addition to these credentials, Taran is the only youngster ever to appear on the ABC talk show, "Politically Incorrect," hosted by Bill Maher.

Additional projects include "Ebbie," a movie for cable starring Susan Lucci -- a 1990s version of "A Christmas Carol" in which he played Tiny Tim. As the co-star in a series of educational videos which teach children values, Taran had the opportunity to work with actor Alan Thicke.

In addition to his acting, Taran does support work for a number of charitable organizations. He eagerly volunteers to help the National MS Society; has served as the honorary chairperson for the Orange County, California MS Read-a-thon; and participated in the Star Kids Challenge, benefiting the Make-A Wish Foundation; Hollywood for Children, benefiting the Audrey Hepburn Foundation; and Sail With the Stars, providing wishes for terminally ill children. Taran is also a RAAADD Kid (Recording Artists & Actors Against Drunk Driving), and supports the D.A.R.E. program for schoolchildren.

With sincere appreciation for his good fortune, Taran feels that all kids should have the essentials in life. He has participated in a press tour acting as the spokesperson for the national Kids "R" Us coat drive for needy children and the Salvation Army. Taran made the first donation of two of his coats and worked to encourage the community to donate coats for needy kids.

When he's not acting or donating his time for charitable purposes, Taran loves piloting the family's home-built experimental airplane, riding his motorcycle and mountain bike, fencing, paintball competitions, chess, sailing, and playing with his roller hockey team.

Vital Statistics
BIRTHPLACE: San Francisco, CA
BIRTHDATE: April 8
HEIGHT: 5'7"
HAIR: Light brown
EYES: Blue

Need to write? Here's where to send mail to Taran Smith.