Alan Osmond, founding member of The Osmonds, dies aged 76

Alan Osmond, a founding member of the 1970s pop group The Osmonds, has passed away at the age of 76. The American musician, best known for hits like 'Crazy Horses,' 'Love Me for a Reason,' and 'Let Me In,' died on Monday. Osmond had been living with multiple sclerosis since his diagnosis in 1987.

His music career began in 1958 when he formed a barbershop quartet with his brothers Wayne, Merrill, and Jay. Younger siblings Donny and Jimmy later joined the act.

The group was discovered by Jay Emerson Williams and became regular performers on The Andy Williams Show starting in 1962.

In the 1970s, The Osmonds scored five UK Top 10 singles and four UK Top 10 albums.

Alan was the songwriter and composer of their hits 'One Bad Apple' and 'Down by the Lazy River.' In 1972, the family was featured in an ABC Saturday morning cartoon series, The Osmonds, which ran until 1973.

Alan and his wife, Suzanne, whom he married in 1974, had eight sons. He retired from performing in 2007, alongside his brother Wayne, as the group marked its 50th anniversary. Wayne died at aged 73 after suffering a stroke in January 2025.

In 2024, Alan published his memoir, One Way Ticket, which chronicled his life in music and his journey with multiple sclerosis (MS).

"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," said his family in a statement.

"His life was not measured in years, but in love, sacrifice, and purpose," said his brother Merill. "His creativity, his vision, and his deep understanding of the Savior’s teachings were simply part of who he was. He lived it. He felt it. He shared it."

Alan Osmond is survived by his wife, their eight sons, 30 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.