US musician Donny Osmond has delivered an emotional and deeply personal tribute to his older brother Alan, following his passing at the age of 76. The eldest Osmond sibling died on Monday, surrounded by his wife Suzanne and their eight children, as confirmed in a statement shared with American broadcaster KSL TV in Utah.
A Lifelong Protector and Guide
Posting to Instagram, Donny shared a cherished childhood photograph of the pair, describing Alan as his lifelong "protector" and "guide." In his heartfelt message, Donny wrote: "This is one of the earliest pictures I have of my brother Alan and me. Even back then, you can see that he had his arm around me, watching over me. That’s who he was. My protector. My guide. The one who quietly carried so much responsibility so the rest of us could shine."
He continued, emphasizing Alan's leadership role: "Alan was our leader in every sense of the word. His tireless work helped build everything we became. I will always be grateful for the sacrifices he made and the love he showed — not just to me, but to every member of our family." Donny concluded with a poignant farewell: "I owe him more than I can ever fully express. I love you, Alan. Thank you for always being there for me. Til we meet again, Brother Donny."
Founding Member of The Osmonds
Alan Osmond was best known as a founding member of the iconic family band The Osmonds, which achieved global fame with a string of hit songs. The group's notable tracks include One Bad Apple, Yo-Yo, Crazy Horses, Love Me For A Reason, and Let Me In. Alan began performing in 1958 alongside brothers Wayne, Merrill, and Jay, with younger siblings Donny and Jimmy later joining to form the complete lineup.
The Osmonds rose to prominence after appearances on The Andy Williams Show, evolving into a worldwide pop sensation. Alan played a crucial role behind the scenes, contributing as a songwriter, composer, and producer on many of their biggest hits. Throughout their illustrious career, The Osmonds sold more than 77 million records globally, securing multiple UK top 10 singles and albums, including a number one with Love Me For A Reason, which was famously covered by Irish band Boyzone in 1994.
Health Battle and Legacy
Alan had been living with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) for nearly four decades. This condition affects the central nervous system, often leading to symptoms such as fatigue, numbness, vision problems, and difficulty walking. Despite his diagnosis, Alan remained remarkably determined and positive, famously stating: "I may have MS, but MS does NOT have me!"
As his health declined, Alan stepped back from performing and later retired alongside his brother Wayne, who passed away in 2025 at the age of 73. Away from the spotlight, Alan, a devout Mormon, married his wife Suzanne in 1974, and together they raised eight children, many of whom have continued the family's musical legacy.
Brother Merrill's Tribute
Donny and Alan's brother Merrill also paid tribute, writing on Facebook: "My brother has now stepped into the presence of our Father in Heaven with honor and peace. He gave everything he had to the Lord, to his family, and to all of you … He truly was a saint." The Osmonds' influence extended beyond music, with the family starring in their own television projects, including a 1970s cartoon series and a variety show, solidifying their status as one of the most famous musical families of their era.
