Introduction
Jimmy Osmond, 55, Suffers Stroke During Panto Performance as Captain Hook
Jimmy Osmond — the youngest member of the legendary musical group The Osmonds — was rushed to the hospital after suffering a stroke on stage during a performance of Peter Pan at the Birmingham Hippodrome. He had been playing the role of the villainous yet beloved Captain Hook.
The incident occurred on the evening of December 27th. Despite feeling unwell, Jimmy pushed through and completed the performance, even signing autographs for fans before being taken to the hospital. This marks the second stroke he’s experienced in the last 15 years.
A spokesperson for Jimmy said he is incredibly grateful for the well-wishes and support and will be taking time off in the new year to focus on his recovery. His understudy, Luke Redford, along with Darren Daye, will take over the role for the remainder of the show, which runs until January 27th.
Fiona Allan, Artistic Director and Chief Executive of the Birmingham Hippodrome, expressed the venue’s sadness:
“Everyone here at Birmingham Hippodrome has been deeply saddened by Jimmy’s sudden illness. He brought a unique charm to the role of Captain Hook — both dastardly and heartwarming — and won the admiration of our audience and staff alike. We send our very best wishes to Jimmy and his family for a full recovery.”
Jimmy Osmond began performing at just 3 years old and rose to international fame by the age of 9 with his UK No.1 hit “Long Haired Lover from Liverpool.” He married Michelle Larson in 1992 and is the father of seven children. Born in Ogden, Utah, he is a member of the Latter-day Saint movement.
Jimmy previously suffered a stroke 15 years ago while filming his show Jimmy Osmond’s American Jukebox. He later learned it was caused by a birth defect — a hole in his heart known as a patent foramen ovale. Emergency surgery was required to close the hole and prevent further strokes.
This heart defect appears to run in his family. Several of his siblings, nephews, and one of his daughters were found to have the same condition. All underwent corrective procedures, except for his daughter Bella, whose tiny heart defect closed naturally over time.
Despite never showing symptoms as a child, Jimmy’s condition nearly cost him his life — and his resilience has continued to inspire fans around the world. His decades-long dedication to music, television, and theater remains an enduring legacy.