HGTV Star, 53, Opens Up About His Struggle with Substance Abuse: 'I knew I was in trouble.'
- - HGTV Star, 53, Opens Up About His Struggle with Substance Abuse: 'I knew I was in trouble.'
Mary Ellen MorinDecember 21, 2025 at 3:17 AM
0
David Bromstad has been changing lives on HGTV's My Lottery Dream Home for 10 years. The reality television host and designer is known for giving clients a home that reflects their own personality, vision, and experiences. He has infectious energy, loves color, and is a mastermind of his craft.
In a HGTV special that aired last night, fans were treated to the unveiling of Bromstad's own Florida dream home on My Lottery Dream Home: David’s Happy Ending. What fans didn't expect or see through the renovation footage was what Bromstad calls "a very dark time in my life," during which the celebrity designer took a break from filming to seek out addiction treatment, according to an interview with People.
During the interview, Bromstad explains how the house was emotionally based for him, meaning whatever happened to the house felt like it was happening to him. The home was a tangible symbol of healing from his childhood trauma, specifically depression and bullying that he endured. As his "childhood dream home" began to come to life, pieces of him began to heal. Sadly, the same felt true for the star when the home suffered extensive storm damage mid-renovation.
"I called it art, in the moment," the TV personality says, going on to explain that his immersion in the project was a coverup for the stress and pain he was dealing with. Bromstad then makes the honest confession that using substances was an easy escape from what he was feeling. "I knew I was in trouble," he said.
In 2023, Bromstad shared an Instagram post signifying his 50th birthday and acknowledged his sobriety in the caption: "Feels good to be present, sober and living the life I was intended to live."
View this post on Instagram
The 2-year old post is being flooded with new comments as fans and followers find Bromstad's story inspiring and uplifting: "I relate so deeply with you and draw hope from your story. It's life-saving. Keep telling your story!" One follower shared. "I just saw your show. I am so sorry for all the damage to your house. It was very beautiful. But you made it even better," said another. Another inspired fan shared this sentiment: "An extraordinary light to brighten this world with love, joy, and gratitude. Thank you for sharing your journey. You inspire me to live more!"
Bromstad's 1-hour-long special, My Lottery Dream Home: David’s Happy Ending, premiered yesterday, December 19th, 2025, and is available for streaming on digital platforms such as Amazon, YouTube, Apple TV, and more.
Related: HGTV Design Star Winner David Bromstad on Helping Find Lottery Winners Their Dream Home
This story was originally published by Parade on Dec 21, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Source: “AOL Entertainment”
