The Osmonds

Donny Osmond remembers the Osmonds’ early success and Wayne’s Passing

Introduction

Donny Osmond Reflects on the Osmonds’ Meteoric Rise and the Loss of Brother Wayne

In the pantheon of iconic boy bands, The Osmonds hold a revered place alongside groups like The Jackson 5. Donny Osmond, a key figure in the family’s success, recently shared memories of their early days and a heartfelt tribute to his late brother Wayne in the MTV Entertainment Studios documentary Larger than Life: Reign of the Boy Bands.

Donny revealed a little-known piece of pop history: the Osmonds’ breakthrough hit, “One Bad Apple”, was originally written for The Jackson 5. “They turned it down,” Donny said, “and we got the song—and the number one record.” That hit launched the Osmonds into superstardom, marking the start of a whirlwind career that captivated audiences around the world.

He recalled the shock and exhilaration of their first major performance, describing the screaming fans as overwhelming. At first, Donny thought something had gone wrong in the audience—until he realized the screams were for them. “You’ve got to be kidding me,” he remembered thinking. “I’ve got to do this for the rest of my life.”

With fame came intense moments. Donny described how girls in the crowd would grab his wrist when he reached out from the stage. His brother Alan would pull him back, creating a strange conflict in Donny’s mind: part of him wanted to be rescued—part of him wanted to be swallowed by the crowd, swept away by the emotion of it all.

In a poignant turn, Donny also reflected on the loss of his older brother Wayne, who passed away on January 1st in Salt Lake City following a stroke. “Wayne brought so much light, laughter, and love to everyone who knew him,” Donny posted. “He was the ultimate optimist.” The Osmonds’ legacy continues not only through their music but also through their enduring bond as a family—tested by time, fame, and now, profound loss.

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