The Osmonds' Alan Osmond dies at 76 after autoimmune disease battle

Editor Stephen Hill  21st April 2026

Alan Osmond, the beloved singer of the iconic musical family The Osmonds, has sadly passed away at the age of 76 after a lengthy battle with a chronic autoimmune disease. Surrounded by his wife, Suzanne, and their eight sons, Alan left this world, leaving behind a legacy steeped in music and resilience.

Although the exact cause of death has not been disclosed, Alan had been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis back in 1987. His family released a heartfelt statement acknowledging his inspirational spirit: "His positive outlook was an inspiration to many, and he dedicated much of his time to speaking at MS events, encouraging others to manage both the mental and physical challenges of the disease."

Osmond first captivated audiences as a member of a barbershop quartet on The Andy Williams Show alongside his brothers—Wayne, Merrill, and Jay. 

The group later evolved into The Osmonds, a teen pop sensation dominating the charts in the 1970s with chart-toppers like "One Bad Apple" and "Love Me for a Reason." Alan played a crucial role in the group's success, credited as a major songwriter and composer for hits such as "One Bad Apple" and the acclaimed "Crazy Horses."

Initially, the siblings performed to raise funds for hearing aids for their older brothers, Virl and Tom Osmond. Reflecting on their musical journey, Alan once 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." The brothers became known as the "One Take Osmonds," perfecting their songs in record time to comply with child labor laws.

Pictured from left, brothers Wayne, Jay, Donny, Merrill and Alan in 1972

Recalling the height of their fame, Donny Osmond, who later ventured off to pursue a solo career, shared vivid memories of the mania that surrounded them in the 1970s. After their inaugural flight into Heathrow, fans caused a balcony collapse, leading to bans from both Heathrow and Gatwick airports. "I always go back to the memories of Osmondmania in the early ’70s. It was hysteria on steroids," Donny reminisced. "I remember being with Alan in our hotel room, watching a TV debate on whether I should be deported for my effect on young kids."

Despite facing enormous challenges due to his diagnosis, Alan remained hopeful. He famously stated, "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." His mother’s encouraging motto, "I may have MS, but MS does not have me," became a guiding principle in his life.

Alan stepped away from the group in 2007, allowing his brothers to pursue their solo paths. Together with Merrill, he established the Stadium of Fire in Provo, Utah—a major Fourth of July celebration—and co-founded the OneHeart Foundation. In 2024, he released his memoir, *One Way Ticket,* chronicling his extraordinary life experiences.

Alan is survived by his wife, eight sons, 30 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, leaving behind a rich musical legacy and a profound impact on both his family and fans worldwide.