Introduction
The Osmonds: A Legacy of Fame, Family, and Resilience
For over six decades, The Osmonds captured hearts worldwide with their musical talents, wholesome image, and strong family values. But what has life been like for the famous siblings after the spotlight faded? While some members have faced heartbreaking challenges, others continue to inspire through strength, creativity, and love. Here’s a look at where the six Osmond brothers are today—and how they’re embracing life after fame.
Donny Osmond: From Teen Idol to Family Man
Donny Osmond’s story is one of early fame, struggle, and eventual redemption. When he got married at just 20, fans reacted with record-burning parties, and his career took a major hit. The pressures nearly led him to bankruptcy in the 1980s. But with unwavering support from his wife Deborah and their five sons, Donny reinvented himself.
After a successful 11-year Las Vegas residency with sister Marie, Donny decided to slow down and enjoy life with his growing family, which now includes 10 grandchildren. Despite the early career fallout, he has no regrets about choosing love: Donny and Deborah have been happily married for 41 years.
Merrill Osmond: Turning Challenges into Purpose
Once the lead singer of the Osmonds, Merrill Osmond now finds joy in his family of six children and 15 grandchildren. But his greatest source of inspiration came from personal trials. Merrill’s two brothers were born deaf, and later, his own son Justin was diagnosed with hearing loss.
Rather than letting it hold them back, Merrill and Justin became fierce advocates for the deaf community. Justin, who learned to play multiple instruments, even ran 250 miles to raise awareness and funds for children in need of hearing aids. Merrill’s journey from entertainer to humanitarian has made him a role model for fathers everywhere.
Alan Osmond: Fighting MS with Courage
As the eldest brother and creative force behind many of the Osmonds’ hits, Alan Osmond was a natural leader. But behind the scenes, he’s been battling Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for over 30 years. His condition didn’t stop him from supporting his son David, who was also diagnosed with MS. Alan’s mantra, “MS doesn’t have me,” inspired David to overcome the odds—rising from a wheelchair to a thriving music career and becoming an MS advocate.
Alan may no longer perform, but he continues writing songs and spreading hope, proving that true strength shines brightest in adversity.
Jimmy Osmond: A New Chapter After Stroke
Jimmy Osmond, the youngest of the group, became a star at nine years old. But in recent years, he’s faced serious health issues, including two strokes—the most recent in 2018, which forced him to leave the stage.
Still, Jimmy sees life through a grateful lens. Supported by his wife Michelle and their four children, Jimmy has pivoted toward his other passion: storytelling. He’s now a published children’s book author and continues to inspire with his positivity, faith, and deep appreciation for family.
Wayne Osmond: Beating Cancer, Embracing Peace
Renowned as the most musically gifted of the brothers, Wayne Osmond overcame a devastating diagnosis of brain cancer in the late 1990s. Though he lost some hearing due to treatment, and later suffered a stroke, Wayne remains upbeat and thankful for life’s simple pleasures—especially his 45-year marriage, grandchildren, and newfound love for gardening.
“I’ve had a wonderful life,” he says. “Now, my favorite thing is taking care of my yard. I turn off my hearing aids, tune everything out, and just enjoy the peace.”
Jay Osmond: Keeping the Story Alive
Jay Osmond, the group’s drummer, recently turned storyteller. After a 24-year marriage ended in divorce, Jay found love again and remarried. Today, he is the proud father of three sons and several grandchildren.
While still performing, Jay is also developing a musical about the Osmond family’s journey—raw, real, and emotional. He believes it’s time the world saw the true story behind the music, not just the sugary version.
The Legacy Lives On
Despite fame, fortune, and familial friction—including a staggering $80 million loss due to mismanagement—the Osmonds always circled back to what matters most: family. Though they’ve drifted apart in recent years, their love and respect for each other remain deep-rooted.
In 2019, they came together one final time to celebrate Marie Osmond’s 60th birthday, marking a powerful and emotional farewell performance. For many, it felt like the end of an era.
But is it really over?
Not quite. Merrill, Jay, and David Osmond continue to perform, while Donny is preparing a new solo album. Though some brothers have stepped away for good, the Osmond legacy—built on faith, family, and music—still echoes.
And who knows? The best may be yet to come.