The Osmonds’ star Alan has died at the age of 76, his heartbroken family have confirmed as they paid tribute to the late musician, branding him an ‘inspiration to many’
The Osmonds’ star dies as family share moving tribute after MS battle(Image: Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images)
Alan Osmond has died, his family have confirmed. The lead singer of The Osmonds died at 8:30pm on Monday, surrounded by his wife and children. Alan had been living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) since his diagnosis in 1987. The late musician first noticed symptoms of the condition while on stage, leaving him unable to raise his hand. But while many would have been left concerned, he trusted God.
In a statement, the family said: “His positive outlook was an inspiration to many, and he donated much of his time speaking at MS events, encouraging individuals like himself on how to mentally and physically deal with the advancement and treatment of the disease.” MS is a lifelong condition which affects the brain and nerves, with several key warning signs to look out for.
Inflammation can occur in parts of the brain or spinal cord, leading to symptoms. Currently, it’s estimated that around 130,000 people in the UK live with MS. The NHS says MS can cause a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.
Alan Osmond has died(Image: Getty Images)
The musician had been battling MS for four decades(Image: Getty Images)
Alan shot to stardom after performing alongside his siblings following his appearance on The Andy Williams Show. At just 12 years old, he formed a barbershop quartet with his brothers Wayne, Merrill and Jay.
They were subsequently joined by younger sibling Donny, with the group achieving worldwide recognition as a pop phenomenon throughout the 1970s.
Alan played a pivotal role as songwriter and composer for the band, penning several of The Osmonds’ greatest hits, including One Bad Apple and Crazy Horses, which were critically acclaimed.
Alan shot to fame alongside his brothers(Image: Getty Images)
The ensemble initially performed to raise funds for hearing aids for their older brothers, Virl and Tom Osmond. Reflecting on their abilities, Alan previously remarked: “It was given to us for a purpose, and when you get a gift, it’s expected that you use it properly.
“Family is everything, and music helped us put out that message,” he said. The group earned the nickname the “One Take Osmonds,” owing to the remarkable swiftness with which they could master their performances. They put considerable effort into honing their craft, despite being bound by strict child labour laws that limited their working hours.
“We could only work so many hours a day,” Alan recalled, “so we’d take the work home and make sure we nailed it on the first take.” However, in 2007, he left the group, and his brothers carved out solo careers.
Alan co-founded and managed the OneHeart Foundation with his wife, Suzanne(Image: Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Alan, alongside his brother, Merrill, launched the Stadium of Fire in Provo, Utah, a huge Fourth of July celebration. He also co-founded and managed the OneHeart Foundation with his wife, Suzanne. Just two years ago, he published his memoir, One Way Ticket.
Reflecting on his MS diagnosis, he shared: “I was on stage and couldn’t raise my right hand. I trusted my Heavenly Father. You have to have opposition in life – this was my test.” Throughout his battle with the condition, he drew strength from his mother’s inspiring words: “I may have MS, but MS does not have me!”
His son, David, born in 1979, the lead singer of the Osmonds Second Generation and the Osmond Chapman Orchestra, who also appeared on the eighth series of American Idol, like his father, was diagnosed with MS in 2005, but his symptoms are less severe than his late father’s.
Alan was on stage when he first noticed symptoms of his MS(Image: Getty Images)
An outpouring of heartfelt tributes followed as devastated fans learned of the tragic news. One Facebook user wrote: “So Sad To Hear This News, Osmond Fan, 55 Years Loving This Amazing Family. Rest In Peace, Alan Osmond.”
Another commented: “So sad – he had MS for years. He was the eldest performing Osmond brother. RIP Alan – I met him when I was 13 at the Tropicana Hotel and was so kind to me. My prayers & thoughts to the family.”
A third fan added: “May he Rest In Peace, and his family find peace and comfort at this time. This is so sad. I grew up watching the Osmond family. Sending my deepest and sincere condolences.”
While a fourth went on to type: “Very sad news. I loved the Osmonds. Grew up listening to all their music, not to mention the fan magazines. My condolences to the entire family. RIP.” A fifth wrote: “I’m thinking of his family and loved ones during this difficult time, may his memory live on through his music and legacy.”
Meanwhile, a sixth reflected: “So sad… loved all these men … blessing of comfort for you all and prayers for peace… such a wonderful family and such a good example to all…”
Alan shared his final social media post on February 19 this year, a picture of Dallin H. Oaks, President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reading: “We love you, young and old, men and women. So does the Lord!
“God is relentless in His loving pursuit of each of you. Keep the commandments and be true to the covenants so many of you have made to guide you along the covenant path. Protect yourself with weekly renewing of your covenants by partaking of the sacrament and consistent efforts to live according to those sacred covenants. Those who have been endowed should include regular attendance at the temple. In sum, stay on the covenant path.”
In November 2021, Alan and his wife were honoured as Pillars of Utah Valley. But in 2000, he was honoured with the Dorothy Corwin Spirit of Life Award from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. During his acceptance speech, he acknowledged his time in the military reserves, while also revealing that he had taken karate lessons from the late Chuck Norris.Alan is survived by his wife, Suzanne and their eight sons, along with their 30 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
