Entertainment

Wayne Osmond, Beloved Member of the Iconic Osmond Family, Passes Away at 73

2025-01-02

Author: Ling

Wayne Osmond, the cherished smooth baritone of the renowned musical group, the Osmond Brothers, has sadly passed away at the age of 73. He died following a "massive stroke" at a hospital in Salt Lake City, Utah, as confirmed by his brother, Merrill Osmond.

Merrill took to social media to share heartfelt tributes, stating, “I’ve never known a man that had more humility. A man with absolute no guile. An individual that was quick to forgive and had the ability to show unconditional love to everyone he ever met.” He added, “I will miss him tremendously. I am so grateful to have grown up with one of heavenly father's greatest sons.”

In an official statement, the Osmond family expressed their sorrow, stating, “His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter have influenced the lives of many people around the world. He would want everyone to know that the gospel of Jesus Christ is true, that families are forever, and that banana splits are the best dessert. We love him and will miss him dearly.”

Born on August 28, 1951, in Ogden, Utah, Wayne was the fourth of nine siblings. He launched his musical journey at a young age, performing in a barbershop quartet with his older brother Alan and younger siblings Merrill and Jay. Their musical talents were first showcased during performances for their family's congregation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in 1958.

The Osmond Brothers gained significant fame after their discovery at Disneyland, leading to appearances on ABC’s "The Lawrence Welk Show" and "The Andy Williams Show." As the group evolved, they welcomed brothers Donny and Jimmy, solidifying their status as a beloved family act. Wayne played multiple instruments, notably contributing backing vocals, guitar, and even bagpipes.

The band's peak came in the 1970s with hits like "One Bad Apple," which dominated the Billboard Hot 100 for five weeks in early 1971. They starred in an Osmond Brothers Special for CBS that same year. Later, Donny and Marie Osmond became household names with their own variety show, which ran from 1976 to 1979 and enjoyed a resurgence as a staple on the Vegas Strip in the 2010s.

Throughout his life, Wayne faced numerous health challenges, including surgeries for a brain tumor in 1997, a stroke in 2012, and treatment for cancer. He leaves behind a loving family, including his wife of over 50 years, Kathlyn, their five children, and all of his siblings: Virl, Tom, Alan, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Marie, and Jimmy.

The world has lost a talented musician and a kind-hearted man whose impact on the music industry and the lives of countless fans will resonate for generations to come. Fans are encouraged to remember him not only for his musical contributions but for the warmth and love he shared with those around him.