Danny Bonaduce Says Father Told Him ‘Acting Is One Step Below Pimping’ When He Was Filming “The Partridge Family” at Age 10

Danny Bonaduce Reveals Father’s Shocking Comparison of Acting to ‘Pimping’ at Age 10

In a recent revelation, Danny Bonaduce, former child star of The Partridge Family, shed light on his tumultuous relationship with his father, Joseph Bonaduce. The 66-year-old actor shared on The Real Brady Bros. that his father made a startling comparison when he started his acting career at the tender age of 10, stating that “acting is one step below pimping.” This statement had a profound impact on Danny’s early years in the entertainment industry.

Growing up in Pennsylvania, where his father worked at the Philadelphia Zoo, Danny’s life took a turn when Joseph submitted a script to The Dick Van Dyke Show. The producers not only accepted the script but also offered to pay for their relocation to California, where Joseph began his career as a TV writer and producer. Danny embarked on his own acting journey, appearing in shows like Bewitched and commercials before landing his iconic role as Danny Partridge in The Partridge Family.

Despite his professional success, Danny’s father harbored resentment towards his son’s acting career. Before one of his shoots for The Partridge Family, Danny recalled a chilling moment when his father stopped him at the door, saying, “Acting is one step below pimping.” This harsh criticism lingered in Danny’s mind, highlighting the strained relationship he shared with his father.

While Joseph worked in the entertainment industry himself, Danny described him as a conflicted and often mean-spirited individual. Despite his talent, his father’s behaviour created tension within the family. Danny shared anecdotes of his father’s erratic behavior, from angrily writing in the bathroom to clashes with colleagues on set. These incidents added to the already strained dynamic between father and son.

One poignant moment that Danny recounted was when his father was banned from the set of The Partridge Family after making actress Shirley Jones uncomfortable. Joseph’s unprofessional conduct led to his removal from the show, culminating in his ostracization from the set. This incident further exemplified the challenges Danny faced in balancing his career with his tumultuous family life during his formative years in Hollywood.

The Partridge Family, a beloved sitcom that aired from 1970 to 1974, catapulted Danny Bonaduce to fame alongside co-stars like David Cassidy and Susan Dey. The show’s success and chart-topping single, “I Think I Love You,” cemented Danny’s place in television history. However, behind the scenes, the actor grappled with personal struggles and a complex relationship with his father that shaped his journey in showbiz.

As Danny’s career transitioned from acting to radio hosting in later years, he remained close with his Partridge Family co-star David Cassidy until his passing in 2017. The enduring friendships formed on set served as a source of solace for Danny amidst the challenges he faced in his personal life. Despite the tumultuous beginnings of his acting career and the strained relationship with his father, Danny Bonaduce persevered and carved out a successful path for himself in the world of entertainment.

In retrospect, Danny’s candid revelations shed light on the trials and tribulations he endured as a child star navigating fame, family dynamics, and personal challenges in the unforgiving realm of show business. His resilience and determination to forge his own path despite the obstacles he faced serve as a testament to his strength and perseverance in the face of adversity.