# Whatever Happened to Tom Smith After Misfit Garage?
Tom Smith, the quick-witted, hilarious mechanic from *Misfit Garage*, captured the hearts of fans with his humor and impressive car builds. As a spin-off of *Fast N’ Loud*, *Misfit Garage* followed Tom, Jordan Butler, Thomas Weeks, and Scott McMillan as they launched Fired Up Garage in Dallas, Texas, after being fired from Gas Monkey Garage.
Premiering on October 13, 2014, on the Discovery Channel, the show ran for six successful seasons, blending automotive expertise with quirky personalities. However, after its final episode in 2018, the series ended without official cancellation or renewal, and Tom seemingly vanished from the public eye. So, where did he go?
Before fame, Tom’s life was a blend of mischief and passion. A sharp mind who won a state spelling bee before age 10, his true love was cars, sparked by working at his uncle’s garage. A wild streak led to a joyride at 10, crashing into a police car, prompting his family to send him to live with his grandmother for stability.
After high school, Tom opened his first auto shop in Ohio, honing his skills under mentor Carl Parsons, a master mechanic. Alongside cars, Tom pursued stand-up comedy, performing across cities, showcasing his dual talents.
Tom’s TV journey began on *Fast N’ Loud* at Gas Monkey Garage, where his bold humor made him a fan favorite. However, clashes with owner Richard Rawlings, including a dispute over a fan’s photo with a Rolls-Royce, led to his firing alongside Jordan. This setback birthed *Misfit Garage*, where Tom’s larger-than-life persona thrived.
Fans loved the underdog spirit and suspected drama with Gas Monkey was staged for buzz, especially since Rawlings was a producer and landlord for Fired Up Garage. Yet, declining viewership, high production costs due to the staged set, and criticism over unconventional repair methods and forced drama likely contributed to the show’s quiet end.
Post-*Misfit Garage*, Tom stepped away from the spotlight, leaving fans curious. While he’s kept a low profile, he hasn’t abandoned his passions
Active on social media as “Tom Smith the Car Guy,” he shares updates on custom builds and hot rod projects. Comedy remains a focus; even during the 2020 pandemic, Tom performed live and online, bringing laughter to tough times.
Beyond cars and humor, Tom’s big heart shines through his involvement in dog rescue, helping animals find homes—a quieter, meaningful pursuit.
Recently, Tom hinted at a potential new automotive show centered on mods and custom builds, infused with his signature humor. Though unconfirmed, this has fans buzzing about a “Tom Smith experience” that could redefine car TV.
Far from disappearing, Tom continues moving forward, balancing garage work, comedy, and philanthropy. He’s not gone—just crafting life on his terms, proving his unforgettable spirit endures beyond *Misfit Garage*.