What Happened to David Reed Bromstad?

David Reed Bromstad, born on August 17, 1973, first rose to national prominence in 2006 as the winner of the debut season of HGTV's reality competition, 'Design Star'. Prior to his television career, Bromstad honed his artistic skills at the Ringling College of Art and Design and worked as a Disney illustrator, a background that heavily influenced his vibrant and art-driven design style. His victory on 'Design Star' led to his first hit series, 'Color Splash,' which he hosted from 2007 to 2012/2013, establishing his signature bold use of color in interior design.

Since 2015, Bromstad has been the beloved host of 'My Lottery Dream Home,' a show where he helps lottery winners find their ideal properties across the country. The show has been a consistent success for HGTV, with Bromstad reportedly earning around $500,000 per season. His engaging personality and ability to connect with clients have made him a fan favorite, leading to numerous appearances on other HGTV programs such as 'Beach Flip,' 'Rock the Block,' and 'Design at Your Door'.

In late 2025, Bromstad openly shared a significant personal struggle that began with a dream home renovation in Orlando turning into a four-year ordeal. A severe storm caused extensive flooding and mold damage to his property, leading to immense stress, a 'spiral,' and a period of unhealthy behaviors, including substance use. He documented this challenging journey, including taking a year-long break from the renovation for his mental and physical health, in the HGTV special 'My Lottery Dream Home: David's Happy Ending,' which premiered in December 2025. During this time, he celebrated his 50th birthday in Norway, drawing inspiration for a new design direction for his home. As of 2025, he reported nearing three years of sobriety, indicating a strong recovery.

As of May 2026, David Bromstad remains highly active on HGTV. 'My Lottery Dream Home' continues its run, with Season 19 debuting on February 20, 2026, and new episodes returning on May 1, 2026. He also made a special appearance in the Season 3 finale of 'Zillow Gone Wild,' which premiered on May 1, 2026, showcasing his expertise in unique homes. On May 1, 2026, he was also spotted working in Myrtle Beach, indicating ongoing filming and projects. His net worth in 2026 is estimated to be between $2 million and $6 million, reflecting his sustained success in television and design. Bromstad, who is openly gay, has been private about his current romantic life since an 11-year relationship ended in 2015, though he expressed a desire for a husband in 2025. False rumors of hospitalization and a cancer diagnosis in March 2026 were debunked, with the images likely being AI-generated.