Property Brothers Defend David Bromstad as HGTV Faces Backlash
In an emotional display of loyalty and support, HGTV favorites Drew and Jonathan Scott have stepped forward to publicly defend their longtime colleague David Bromstad, praising him as “incredibly brave” for openly confronting his past struggles with addiction and trauma. Their outspoken stance has come as frustration grows among fans who believe HGTV’s response to Bromstad’s deeply personal revelations has been distant and disappointing—revealing what critics see as a network more focused on maintaining a flawless image than acknowledging the real, painful journeys of the people who make its shows possible.
Bromstad, the widely loved host of My Lottery Dream Home, shared his story in the December 2025 special My Lottery Dream Home: David’s Happy Ending. In the episode, he revealed how a violent storm devastated his Florida dream home while it was still under renovation, leaving it flooded, filled with mold, and ultimately unlivable. The destruction forced him to tear down what he described as a lifelong dream—a place meant to heal the emotional scars left by years of bullying, depression, and the struggles of growing up gay in an unaccepting environment.
The loss proved overwhelming. Bromstad admitted that the stress of rebuilding, endless insurance disputes, and emotional exhaustion led him down a dangerous path. “I started using substances,” he said through tears. “It felt like an easy way to escape everything I was dealing with. But I knew I was losing control.” Acknowledging the severity of his situation, he entered a trauma-focused rehabilitation program in the middle of filming, choosing to confront his addiction head-on. Now approaching three years of sobriety, Bromstad describes the experience as the most defining chapter of his life—a powerful testament to recovery and resilience.
Despite the raw honesty and hopeful message of his story, many viewers were shocked by what they perceived as HGTV’s muted reaction. There were no public statements applauding Bromstad’s courage, no visible effort to amplify his recovery as an example for others facing similar struggles. Instead, the special was released quietly, leaving critics to argue that the network appeared uncomfortable spotlighting vulnerability that clashed with its carefully curated brand.
That silence prompted Drew and Jonathan Scott to speak out. Refusing to let Bromstad face the moment alone, the Property Brothers issued a statement that quickly gained traction online. “David was incredibly brave to share his journey of overcoming addiction after losing his dream home,” they said. “He transformed unimaginable pain into hope and self-discovery. That’s something HGTV should be proud to celebrate—not something to minimize or ignore.” Their remarks sharply criticized what they described as the network’s troubling behavior toward talent who dare to speak honestly about mental health and recovery.
The response from fans was immediate and intense. Comment sections filled with anger and disappointment, with many questioning how a channel built on stories of renewal and second chances could fail to show compassion when one of its own needed it most. Viewers shared personal stories of addiction and recovery, crediting Bromstad’s openness with giving them the courage to speak out. “If HGTV won’t stand behind David,” one widely shared comment read, “why should we continue to support them?”
What began as a personal story has now grown into a larger reckoning. By standing firmly beside Bromstad, Drew and Jonathan Scott have turned public discomfort into a broader conversation about integrity, empathy, and accountability. At the heart of the controversy is a simple truth: Bromstad’s willingness to expose his darkest moments deserves recognition, not silence.
The question now looms large. Will HGTV respond with the support many believe is long overdue, or will this moment of honesty be quietly pushed aside? For David Bromstad—and for countless viewers who see their own struggles reflected in his story—the answer carries real weight.