Introduction
The Tragic Story Behind the Osmond Family’s Fame
The Osmonds have long been hailed as the royal family of music in America. With decades of stage presence and countless hits, they left an undeniable mark on popular culture. Yet, behind the bright lights and adoring fans lies a series of heartbreaking tragedies that words can barely capture.
The Brothers Few Ever Knew
George and Olive Osmond had nine children, seven of whom became famous worldwide. What many don’t know is that their first two sons — Virl and Tom — were born deaf. Doctors advised the couple not to have more children, but they chose otherwise. Ironically, it was Virl and Tom who inspired their younger siblings to take music seriously, in hopes of earning enough to buy their brothers hearing aids.
Donny Osmond and the Cruelty of the Press
Donny, the youngest to achieve superstardom, became one of the biggest teen idols of the 1970s. But fame came with harsh criticism. Rolling Stone magazine once wrote that “the worst day in rock ’n’ roll history was the day Donny Osmond was born.” For a teenager still finding his identity, it was devastating. Despite the ridicule, Donny embraced his clean Mormon lifestyle, avoided drugs and excess, and today remains proud of his longevity and health compared to many of his peers.
Merrill Osmond – Wrestling With the Darkness
As the Osmonds’ first lead singer, Merrill seemed to have everything. But behind the spotlight, he battled crippling anxiety, an eating disorder, and suicidal thoughts. He later revealed he was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at age 30. A profound personal “miracle” kept him from taking his own life, leading him to confront his struggles head-on.
Marie Osmond – Abuse and Heartbreak
Marie, the family’s only daughter, revealed she had been a victim of sexual abuse as a child — trauma that distorted her self-image and trust in men. On top of that, Hollywood pressured her relentlessly about her weight, forcing her into dangerous diets. But the deepest wound came in 2010, when her son Michael died by suicide at just 18, after years of battling depression. Marie has openly shared that the grief never truly fades.
Illness Strikes the Brothers
- Alan Osmond was diagnosed with a rare progressive form of multiple sclerosis. His son David inherited the disease at 26.
- Wayne Osmond discovered a deadly brain tumor in 1994 and underwent a grueling 17-hour surgery. Against all odds, he survived.
- Jimmy Osmond suffered two strokes, the most recent in 2018 while performing on stage.
- Jay Osmond narrowly avoided a major stroke in 2020 after suffering a “mini-stroke” caused by severe stress.
Tragedy Beyond the Stage
In 2014, Jay Osmond’s family was hit with a devastating loss when his step-granddaughter, seven-year-old London Mortensen, was tragically killed in a household accident.
Conclusion
Though celebrated as music legends, the Osmond family has endured more than their share of pain — from illness and abuse to loss and heartbreak. Yet, through it all, their resilience, faith, and love for one another have allowed them to survive the darkest chapters of their story.