The Dark Years No One Saw: How David Bromstad Turned Childhood Humiliation into a Vibrant Television Career

Have you ever wondered what hides behind David Bromstad’s radiant smile? Known for his infectious energy and vibrant personality on shows like My Lottery Dream Home, David’s journey is one of resilience and transformation.

From a boy publicly bullied by hundreds of classmates to an inspiring figure for millions, his story is far from easy, yet it is filled with triumph and hope.

David Bromstad grew up in Kokato, Minnesota, in a traditional Scandinavian American household.

From an early age, he exhibited a gentle nature, a love for art, and a distinct personality that set him apart from his peers.

Unfortunately, these qualities made him a target for bullying during high school, particularly in a community where prejudice against sexual orientation was prevalent.

In a 2008 interview with Out Magazine, David recalled a traumatic experience in the school cafeteria where over 600 students directed obscene gestures at him in a coordinated act of public humiliation.

The shock deepened when even the principal, the very person meant to protect students, joined in, seemingly oblivious to the profound pain his actions caused.

David described this moment as “daylight hell,” and it left him living in fear and self-doubt.

No adult stepped in to help, and with no safe space to share his feelings, David gradually withdrew into himself, carrying emotional scars that would take years to heal.

He later admitted to living with depression throughout much of his 20s, a time when many people are exploring their identities while he was simply trying to survive.

In that isolation, art became his refuge.

David began to draw, design, and use color as a way to communicate with himself and mend his internal wounds.

The vibrant colors and energetic designs viewers later saw on television originated from those dark early years, serving as artistic acts of resistance from someone who had been silenced and hurt.

Before becoming a familiar face on television, David dreamed of being a Disney animator.

After graduating from the prestigious Ringling College of Art and Design in Florida, he achieved that dream and joined Disney.

However, after a massive round of layoffs due to an economic downturn, David lost his job, leaving him adrift and questioning his identity and future.

Refusing to give up, David pivoted to interior design, where his artistic sense and keen eye for color served him well.

He launched a small company focused on designing children’s rooms with lively artistic flair.

Although financial success didn’t come immediately, he continued to develop his skills and gradually formed a bold, colorful design identity uniquely his own.

In 2006, a friend encouraged him to apply for Design Star, a new HGTV reality competition seeking designers with strong personalities.

David entered with modest expectations but quickly stood out among hundreds of contestants, ultimately winning the first season.

This victory transformed his life, leading to his own show, Color Splash, which premiered in 2007.

The series showcased David’s vibrant designs and artistic storytelling, solidifying his place in the world of home design.

In 2015, HGTV tapped him again to host My Lottery Dream Home, where he helps lottery winners find their dream houses.

The show became a hit, not only for its unique concept but also because David was the heart of it.

His humor, warmth, and deep empathy for guests made him a favorite among viewers.

While David’s television career thrived, an unexpected crisis emerged in 2015 when his former partner, Jeffrey Glasgow, filed a lawsuit making serious allegations about David’s personal life and finances.

The news shocked his fan base, as the accusations contradicted the cheerful and professional persona he had cultivated on television.

Instead of reacting emotionally or launching a media counteroffensive, David chose silence, allowing the legal system to handle the matter.

After several months, the court dismissed the case, ruling the claims were baseless and ordering Glasgow to cover legal fees for abusing the legal process.

David’s calm and composed response highlighted his resilience and integrity, showcasing that real strength doesn’t need to be shouted to be seen.

However, the challenges didn’t stop there.

Between 2015 and 2016, David faced personal crises involving his family and close friends.

His biological father was hospitalized in critical condition, and a lifelong friend suffered a hemorrhagic stroke.

David shared updates on social media, revealing not only his worry but also the depth of his family bond, something rarely seen behind his glamorous television image.

These back-to-back incidents plunged David into emotional stress, but rather than complain or distance himself, he chose to be present for those he loved.

He briefly paused his entertainment engagements to focus on caring for his family, demonstrating quiet strength and unwavering presence.

Following these personal upheavals, David Bromstad quietly stepped back from the public eye for a time.

When he reappeared on social media in 2023, he shared more personal, reflective content.

One standout moment was a photo of him at the top of a mountain in Norway, where he expressed feeling “clear-headed” and ready to live the life he was meant to live.

David’s posts shifted from event photos to everyday moments, revealing a calmer, more grounded version of himself.

He embraced the idea of connecting rather than performing, showcasing a new chapter in his life.

This transformation made him more relatable and profound in the eyes of his audience.

A significant turning point came when he purchased his dream home in Winter Park, Florida.

The house, spanning over 2,800 square feet with five bedrooms and four bathrooms, is not just a property; it symbolizes David’s journey of rediscovery, healing, and joy.

Each detail reflects his vibrant personality, showcasing his artistic flair and commitment to self-expression.

As David continues to thrive both personally and professionally, he has embraced his role as a community icon.

As HGTV’s first openly gay host, he has been recognized on Out Magazine’s annual list of influential LGBTQ+ individuals.

His authentic presence serves as a powerful source of inspiration for many young people seeking the courage to live truthfully.

David is also expanding his personal brand with a line of furniture, art prints, and decorative accessories that embody his bold design aesthetic.

He aims to infuse creative energy into items that people can bring home and truly call their own.

In his personal life, David is in a happy relationship with Nicholas Martin, a French massage therapist he met in Paris.

Their bond has grown stronger, and they frequently share peaceful everyday moments, showcasing a side of David that is grounded and genuinely at peace in love.

David Bromstad’s journey is not just one of overnight success but of resilience, transformation, and radical self-acceptance.

He has faced adversity head-on and turned it into the foundation of a life rich in character and depth.

His story leaves a lasting impression, reminding us that the path to self-discovery often involves navigating through darkness to find the light within.