![Tanner in season 2 of 'Love on the Spectrum U.S.'](https://cdn.statically.io/img/dnm.nflximg.net/api/v6/2DuQlx0fM4wd1nzqm5BFBi6ILa8/AAAAQdDn65E7sXz8J74tJ85Tt0JYsWyfh-dxoPxQS12sS7VdlEStjz_2DA7yRm9bfSbS_gg-M2FfZ6smurQyg4B2_FzXbb4iIol04pp7ya1dT7sHLit7RYZ1KyJEfleDkY1XrppguFc2pDE9F4DDPGEhZ3Yo.jpg?r=2ae)
![Tanner in season 2 of 'Love on the Spectrum U.S.'](https://cdn.statically.io/img/dnm.nflximg.net/api/v6/2DuQlx0fM4wd1nzqm5BFBi6ILa8/AAAAQdDn65E7sXz8J74tJ85Tt0JYsWyfh-dxoPxQS12sS7VdlEStjz_2DA7yRm9bfSbS_gg-M2FfZ6smurQyg4B2_FzXbb4iIol04pp7ya1dT7sHLit7RYZ1KyJEfleDkY1XrppguFc2pDE9F4DDPGEhZ3Yo.jpg?r=2ae)
As fans of Love Is Blind or Perfect Match are well aware, finding love isn’t for the faint of heart. And while dating may present unique challenges to the neurodivergent community, just about everyone can relate to the romantic triumphs and struggles chronicled in Love on the Spectrum US.
The journey continues in the upcoming new season of the Emmy Award–winning docu-reality series, as a diverse group of people on the autism spectrum navigate the world of romance and relationships. In Season 2, new singles and a few familiar faces hailing from across the country are seeking their own happily ever afters — with many dipping their toes into the dating pool for the very first time.
And whether they find their match, make friends, or just step out of their comfort zone, you’ll be sure to fall for their stories of love, resilience, and hope along the way. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Love on the Spectrum US Season 2.
Expect to see new and familiar faces in Love on the Spectrum US Season 2. To learn more about returning favorites, new singles with dynamic personalities, and where you can follow them all on social media, check out our guide to the cast below.
For Connor, autism means having a “more vivid imagination,” and this Georgia native lets his run wild as an avid collector of swords and a lover of fantasy film and television. Connor lives with his tight-knit family, including his three younger siblings, his mom, stepdad, and their three dogs, but he has fears of spending the “rest of [his] life alone.” That’s why he’s stepping out of his comfort zone and pursuing a relationship for the first time. Connor is excited to meet a brunette woman who hopefully shares his passion for ancient history — and maybe she’s waiting at his first speed-dating event.
Life has never been better for Abbey, who’s still deeply in love with her boyfriend, David. The couple have now been together for almost two years and have plenty of more adventures together on the horizon, including an upcoming African safari. Abbey lives with her mother, Christine, in LA and has recently been volunteering at a thrift store, in addition to managing her growing social media following and online hat business. Abbey says she’s been learning to “manage [her] disability even more,” especially with David by her side, who she says makes her “feel like a princess.”
“It’s finally my turn,” says Journey of her search for love. Having never been on a date, the 18-year-old is eager to discover all that romance has to offer with the right woman. Journey lives in Chicago with her mom, dad, and brother, who are all extremely supportive of her dating — well — journey. She was diagnosed with autism only a year ago, which helped affirm many of her past experiences and answer even more questions. “I was actually really excited,” she says about the diagnosis. “I used to think I was crazy.” Bursting with creativity, Journey has a passion for baking and she plans to bring some sweet treats along on her first date.
Dani is back after learning some hard lessons about dating last season. “It’s best for me to get to know the person first before making any moves,” she says. Besides some DMs over Instagram, the animation enthusiast hasn’t been looking for love, but now she’s ready to get back out there and go on a blind date. Dani has lived with her aunt and uncle since she was 12 years old in Los Angeles, where she owns and operates her animation company, DaniMation. Her dream guy would share in her love of all things animation, but most importantly, he must be completely independent and have his own passions.
Tanner describes himself as “a kind young man who spreads joy all around the world.” He gets plenty of opportunities to do just that on the job at a local hotel in downtown Clemson, where he works alongside his younger sister. Tanner also happens to live close by with his two roommates. While he’s never been on a date before, Tanner is keen to meet his match. On a scale of 1to 10, he ranks the importance of finding love in his life at a 12. Tanner hopes to connect with a potential partner over his fascination with animals and US history.
Since we last saw him, Steve has completely pressed pause on his dating life. But now he’s ready to step out on his first date in over a year, with the help of his personal assistant . “I never know how and or where I’ll find [love], but I just have this feeling that I’m absolutely meant to be with somebody,” Steve says. Diagnosed with autism later in life, he’s excited to jump-start his search for a soulmate once again.
Since the series aired, James, who’s returning from last season, has been enjoying the perks of becoming a “pseudo celebrity.” “A lot of people have been recognizing me now,” he says. “That’s been pretty cool.” But the Boston native, who lives with his parents, June and Lawrence, still hasn’t found that “special someone who [he] can share the best moments of [his] life with.” Despite making zero matches during a recent speed-dating event, James isn’t discouraged. Now he’s back searching for his ideal life partner, who will hopefully appreciate his luscious locks.
In celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, a few of the docuseries’ participants and their families shared what acceptance means to them.
“Autism Awareness means that people should be nice to others that are on the spectrum,” says Abbey of Seasons 1 and 2. “They should understand that some people like me, have a hard time getting words out. Words get stuck in your brain, but all the thoughts are still in there. Please be nice to everyone.” Her mother Christine adds, “My hope is that we come to a place where we can understand that no one is strange or weird, but rather may have neurological differences or deficits that make their thinking, social skills, language unlike yours. No need to judge it. Just be positive to all, spread kindness and move forward with compassion.”
“Finding acceptance and a sense of belonging can be life changing,” says Connor of Season 2. “Growing up I knew I was different and felt I needed to isolate myself. Now I can embrace my neurodivergence without feeling the need to hide or isolate! Being my authentic self and connecting with those who accept and appreciate me can be incredibly empowering!”
Dani, from Seasons 1 and 2, says: “I have never let my disability stop me from pursuing my dreams. From an early age, I navigated a world that often misunderstood and underestimated my capabilities. Yet, with unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, I not only confronted the obstacles presented by my autism but also transcended them. My journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, self-acceptance, and the transformative impact that individuals with autism can have on the world when given the opportunity to shine. Always Presume Competence.”
If you’ve watched the season and want to know what everyone is up to know, hear from them directly here. To check back in with the Season 1 cast, read their interviews here.
All seven episodes of Love on the Spectrum US Season 2 launched on Jan. 19.