Alan Osmond, Legendary Member of The Osmonds, Passes Away at 76 After Battle with MS
Alan Osmond, the iconic founding member and guitarist of the legendary Osmonds, has passed away at the age of 76. The news was confirmed by his family, who announced that Alan passed on Monday following a 40-year-long battle with multiple sclerosis (MS), surrounded by his loved ones.
In a heartfelt statement, the Osmond family shared: “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.”
A Life of Music, Family, and Resilience
Alan Osmond, best known for his role in the successful pop group, was instrumental in shaping The Osmonds’ legacy. He and his brothers began their musical journey on The Andy Williams Show in the 1960s, with Alan’s talent shining through from a young age. At 12, he began singing in a barbershop quartet with his brothers Wayne, Merrill, and Jay, before they were later joined by their younger brother Donny.
The Osmonds skyrocketed to fame in the 1970s, cementing their place in pop history with hits like One Bad Apple and Crazy Horses. As the band’s primary songwriter and composer, Alan’s contributions were integral to their success, and he continued to be a key figure behind their music.
Inspirational Advocate for MS Awareness
Despite the devastating diagnosis of MS, Alan remained a beacon of hope and inspiration. Alongside his wife, Suzanne Pinegar, he raised eight children, embracing fatherhood while also taking on the challenge of living with MS. His battle with the disease did not define him—he was determined to inspire others facing similar struggles.
Alan’s advocacy for MS awareness was unwavering, and he dedicated much of his time to speaking at events and supporting those with the condition. His notable achievements include receiving the Dorothy Corwin Spirit of Life Award from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society in 2000 and, together with Suzanne, being honored as Pillars of Utah Valley in 2021.
In his acceptance speech for the Spirit of Life Award, Alan credited his time in the military reserve and his karate lessons with Chuck Norris for instilling in him the “you can do it” attitude he would carry through life. He famously said, “I may have MS, but MS does NOT have me!” His relentless positivity and strength were reflected in his founding of the OneHeart Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to MS research and development.
A Legacy of Music, Family, and Faith
As one of the most prominent Osmonds, Alan’s legacy extends far beyond the music industry. His brother Donny, perhaps the best-known Osmond, once remarked, “While The Osmond Brothers’ success may now be part of musical history, future historians will certainly recognize that Alan Osmond was definitely the cornerstone of our achievements. Thank you, Alan, for being the leader of the band.”
In addition to his music career, Alan authored two books—his autobiography Alan Osmond – One Way Ticket and Twice Upon a Time, an anthology of fairy tales co-written with Suzanne. In both, he reflected on his life, his family, and his values. He once said, “My family is my priority and my love is unconditional. Show business was our living, but my family is my life. That’s how we survived show business.”
The Osmonds Remembered
Alan’s death comes shortly after the passing of his brother Wayne Osmond, who died last year at the age of 70 after suffering a stroke on New Year’s Day. Wayne’s family issued a statement reflecting on his legacy: “Wayne Osmond, beloved husband and father, passed away peacefully last night surrounded by his loving wife and five children. His legacy of faith, music, love, and laughter has 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.”
Both brothers’ contributions to the music world and their unwavering dedication to family and faith will forever be remembered by fans around the globe.
