The Truth Behind Dani Bowman's Parents

Dani From 'Love on the Spectrum' Was Mostly Raised by Her Aunt and Uncle — What Happened to Her Parents?

Jan. 19 2024, Published 3:01 a.m. ET

In Love on the Spectrum Season 2, Dani Bowman from Season 1 returns.

As one of the more outspoken cast members, Dani knows what she wants. An animation enthusiast, Dani teaches animation to children on the autism spectrum across the country and, occasionally, around the world. The devout creative even founded her first animation company at 11 years old, which eventually evolved into her current company, DaniMation.

Driven and passionate about her work, Dani is adamant that she wants to find someone as motivated to succeed as she is.

Currently based in California, Dani lives with her aunt Sandra Vielma and uncle Patrick Eidemiller, who also appear on the show. But many fans have been curious: What happened to Dani’s parents and why doesn't she live with them? Here’s everything we know about Dani's mom and dad.

Dani Bowman's parents are Myrna Vielma and Robert Bowman

In Season 2, Episode 1 of Love on the Spectrum, Dani goes on a blind date with a guy named Matt, where she sheds light on her current living situation.

Dani says she learned that she was on the autism spectrum when she was 11 years old after moving in with her aunt and uncle. She added, “I used to live with my parents, um, but it didn’t last that long. It’s a sad story."

So, why doesn't Dani live with her parents?

Well, to start, Dani's parent's names are Myrna Vielma and Robert Bowman. And according to public records, they filed for divorce in 2010.

While Dani still appears to have somewhat of a relationship with her mom Myrna, as she sometimes posts pictures with her on Facebook, it seems to be a different story with her father.

In December 2015, Dani opened up about her dad on Facebook. Sharing a link to an article titled "Autism's Lost Generation," she reminds her followers that it's never too late to seek mental help treatment. Dani adds: "I really wish my own father would have gotten a diagnosis, but he is now lost among the homeless."

In other posts by Dani, she hinted at the possibility that her parents may not have been able to handle her autism, which is why she began living with her aunt and uncle. In a hypothetical letter to her parents that she posted as a Facebook status, Dani wrote, "I can't imagine the disappointment, and/or the terror that you must of felt when I was first diagnosed or when you first realize I was different. I wish I could go back in time and comfort you."

While it's upsetting that Dani's parents aren't around as much as she'd like, it appears that her living with her Aunt Sandy and Uncle Patrick was the best decision for her as they were able to provide her with the love and support that she needed to thrive.

In an interview with podcaster Bruce Nachsin of Fails, Falls & F-Ups, Dani claimed that her aunt and uncle were able to put her dreams into motion and help her launch her animation company. "Sandy and Patrick noticed it all. They just noticed my gifts. So what they did is that they help me get my company started," she said.

Love on the Spectrum Seasons 1 and 2 are now streaming on Netflix.

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